New Adult Division Administrator can't wait to get going!

Andrea Barrett, MPH, recently joined the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences as the Division Administrator for the Adult Mental Health Division. Within her role, she will be responsible for project management, supporting faculty in their roles,  and developing the department’s quality and process improvement program.

 

She holds an undergraduate degree in Psychology and a Master's in Public Health. Before joining the University of Minnesota, Andrea (pictured left) began her career at a nonprofit in Omaha, focusing on lead poisoning prevention. She later moved to Vermont, where she led the state's Health Department program on lead poisoning prevention and healthy homes.

Speaking about her move to Minnesota, Andrea said, “I missed the Midwest and love helping to find innovative solutions to problems, so I took a role with M Health Fairview doing quality improvement.” She spent five years with MHealth Fairview before transitioning to the University of Minnesota's Anesthesia Department, where she spent three years continuing her quality improvement work. Andrea felt inspired to join our team, saying, “The psychiatry department has a deep commitment to quality and inclusivity in healthcare education. It’s encouraging to see a focus on patient-centered care and efforts to enhance diversity and equity. Supporting faculty in their roles is crucial for fostering a positive learning environment and improving overall care.”

Outside of work, Andrea has a variety of interests: “I enjoy reading science fiction and fantasy books, and playing games—board games, cards, and role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons. I also love spending time outdoors gardening, hiking, and camping.” She added, “Most of all, I cherish time with my family—my two-year-old daughter, Louise, my husband, and our big, fluffy rescue dog.”

Andrea is excited about her new role, aiming to make a meaningful impact through “problem-solving and applying a quality improvement lens to projects and initiatives.” She looks forward to getting to know the team and collaborating closely with everyone. We’re thrilled to welcome Andrea Barrett to the department!