Professor teaches in the classroom and on the tennis court

In observance of Black History Month, USTA Iowa is recognizing Andrean Simons-Burnett of Iowa City for her contributions to tennis and the medical community.  

Dr. Andrean Simons-Burnett grew up in Nassau, Bahamas, and picked up the sport of tennis when she was six years old when her father introduced her to the game.

“I love that tennis is a life sport,” she said. “I enjoy being able to play and engage with people of all age groups and backgrounds. I have friends all across the world because of the game of tennis.”

Now living in Iowa City, Simons-Burnett is an associate professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology at the University of Iowa. When she’s not lecturing in a classroom or working in the lab, she loves to hit the tennis court. She explains why diversity is important in tennis and beyond.

“Diversity in tennis is important because our nation is rapidly becoming more diverse,” she said. “The diversity of tennis players should ideally reflect the people of our community and nation.”

In addition to playing tennis, Simons-Burnett also volunteer coaches for the Iowa City West Girls’ Tennis Team. She finds it truly rewarding and enjoys giving back to the community. 

“I absolutely love creating an environment where the girls can improve their tennis skills, build confidence, have a great time with their teammates, create positive life-long memories and learn important life skills.”

The celebration of Black History Month began as “Negro History Week,” which was created in 1926 by Carter G. Woodson, an African American historian, scholar, educator and publisher. It became a month-long celebration in 1976.

“Black History month is a time to honor and reflect upon the experiences, contributions and achievements of Black-Americans in American History,” Simons-Burnett added. 

Every year there is a theme for Black History Month. The theme for 2024 is “African Americans and the Arts.”