Leanne Rutt, OTD, M.Ed, OTR/L

Leanne is an accomplished OT educator and practitioner with expertise in pediatrics, mental health, special education, and family-centered care. She has experience developing innovative curricula and building community partnerships that give students real-world learning opportunities. Her teaching emphasizes evidence-based practice, creative problem-solving, and holistic approaches to supporting diverse populations. Leanne’s favorite thing about teaching at Messiah is teaching students while serving the local community in real ways. Outside of class, you can find Leanne spending time with her family and friends and doing anything outdoors.

• O.T.D., Thomas Jefferson University
• M.Ed. Education, Temple University
• B.S. Occupational Therapy, Elizabethtown College
• Advanced Practice Certificate: Teaching in the Digital Age, Thomas Jefferson University

• Developmental and Psychosocial Considerations in OT
• Professionalism in OT
• Level I Fieldwork: Community Interventions
• Level I Fieldwork: Pediatric Practice

• Pediatrics
• Special Education (M.Ed.)
• School-based practice and Early Intervention
• Autism across the Lifespan
• Trauma Informed Care 
• Family Homelessness
• Community & Program Development
• Transition across the lifespan (focused on early intervention & Post-secondary)
• Health Promotion and Mental Health in Children & Youth