Andrea S Fanta, MS, is our Extension specialist in mental health with the Integrated Health Disparities program in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois. The Integrated Health Disparities program includes a team of extension specialists in physical health, mental health, and community health working together to provide leadership and resources in the crusade to address health inequities.

She has vast experience working with the community and their families. Andrea earned her bachelor's and master's degree in occupational therapy in 2010 in Chile. After being involved in several projects and collaborations with the University of Illinois, she decided to pursue a degree in Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS). She is currently in the final stages of the doctoral program at the U of I. Her research interests include health disparity, parenting education, advocacy, and neurodiversity.

Andrea has a passion for understanding the complexity of emerging needs along the life course of individuals. In this position, she will advocate for enhancing the quality of life of underserved and vulnerable populations focusing on creating accessible, evidence-based programming in conjunction with her team.