Debbie Hanson

Chair, Grants Committee; Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee; WeLoveMi COVID-19 Relief Campaign Leadership Team

Debbie grew up on Mercer Island, graduated from MIHS in 1985 and received a BS in Biology from Pacific Lutheran University in 1989. She has both a Masters (1992) and a Doctorate (2008) in Physical Therapy from the University of Puget Sound. Debbie first began her career at Virginia Mason, eventually transitioning to work as a PT for the City of Mercer Island, focusing on helping those living with Parkinson’s Disease (PD). She has over 20 years of experience leading group exercise programs and facilitating support groups for those with PD and she serves on a University of Washington research team, exploring the relationship between exercise and PD. Recently, Debbie also joined the staff at MIHS as an Assessment Coordinator. Debbie and her husband, Dan moved to Mercer Island in 1994, raising three sons, Matthew, Nicholas and Connor, who are also proud graduates of MIHS. Aside from working and overseeing a busy household, Debbie has volunteered extensively over the years.  She is past President of Island Park PTA, MIHS PTSA, and the MI PTA COuncil.  Debbie has served on the MI Arts Council and has enjoyed many years volunteering with the MIHS Band Program, MI Boy Scout Troop 457, MIHS Boys Swim and Dive program and with the MI Beach Club Swim Team. In her spare time, Debbie enjoys golf, traveling, thrift shopping and hanging out with family and friends.