Education
MS in Park & Recreation Management /Therapeutic Recreation, University of North Carolina at Greensboro,
BS in Recreation & Leisure Studies / Therapeutic Recreation/ Fitness & Exercise Science, Shepherd University
Scholarly Contributions
Laura's primary research areas of interest involve professional issues and innovative programming for older adult populations. In addition, her private practice, Empower Recreational Therapy, LLC, offers an annual research grant up to $500 for the advancement of the recreational therapy body of knowledge through evidence-based practice and specialized programming for older adults. This research grant has resulted in several published manuscripts.
Featured Publications
Bedini, L., Kelly, L., McKenzie, K., & Mitchell, K. (2019). Impact of a Pilot Adaptive Sports
Intervention on Residents at a SNF. ATRA Annual in Therapeutic Recreation, LIII (4). 340-367.
Harkins, L. & Bedini, L. (2013). Perceptions of Healthcare Administrators Regarding Recreation Therapy in North Carolina. Annual in Therapeutic Recreation. 21 (2).
Harkins, L. (Fall 2009). Humor as a modality. Literature analysis of humor therapy research. American Journal of Recreation Therapy, 8 (4).
Leadership & Professional Service
AMERICAN THERAPEUTIC RECREATION ASSOCIATION
- Treasurer, Board of Directors (2019-2023)
- Member at Large, Board of Directors (2018-2019): Board Liaison for Research, Evidence-Based Practice, and Federal Public Policy Committees
- Co-Chair, Older Adult Section (2016-2018)
GEORGIA THERAPEUTIC RECREATION ASSOCIATION
-President Elect (2016-2018)
Professional Awards & Recognition
National Academy of Recreational Therapists - Distinguished Fellow (2022)
UNCG - School of Health & Human Sciences- Emerging Leader Alumni Award (2020)
National Academy of Recreational Therapists Scholarly Manuscript Award (2019-2020)
CMS, GA Nursing Home Grant - Second Wind Dreams Grant Award Winner (2017)
UNCG, Alumni Pacesetter Award for Therapeutic Recreation (2016)
NCRPA- TR Division Research Grant Award Winner (2010)
Shepherd University, McMurran Scholar (2008)