Dean’s Message

Dean’s Message

College of Health

Image
Rick Settersten

I warmly welcome you to the College of Health, where we are united by a profound commitment to nurturing healthier lives and communities and ensuring the next generation of globally minded health professionals.

Our modern vision extends beyond traditional boundaries and embraces a holistic approach to health that encompasses the physical, mental and social dimensions of human existence. We recognize that true well-being is a delicate tapestry woven from countless threads, which you can see reflected in our groundbreaking research, including environmental health, resilience, physical activity, aging, substance use, school readiness, metabolic health, worker safety, health equity, food security, sexual health, work-life fit, pollution and more.

Collaborative Excellence

At the heart of our college beats a spirit of collaborative excellence. Our faculty in kinesiology, nutrition, human development and family sciences, public health, and OSU Health Extension work in harmony, transcending disciplines to tackle complex health challenges. Their research, teaching and community engagement are building an unparalleled connection with communities across Oregon and empowering individuals and families to thrive.

Our alumni, the living embodiment of our mission, also are creating positive change and making a tangible difference in the lives of others. Gia Saporito, ’19, tackles child hunger. Amelia Vaughan, ’07, helps improve the health and safety of commercial fishermen. Katie Hart, MPH ’23, improves health equity in her community. Nicole Grady, ’23, uses her kinesiology degree as a launching pad for a career in nursing. Alicia Bongen, ’24, is a mom of four boys who works as a school counselor.

A Bright Future

Every day, I am inspired by the passion, kindness, commitment and resilience of our faculty, staff, students and alumni. Their dedication fuels my belief that the future of health is in capable and caring hands. As we finalize our strategic plan for 2025-2030, we are poised to embark on an exciting new chapter, build upon past successes and embrace new opportunities to nurture a healthier, more prosperous, more equitable, and more sustainable future for all.

Thank you for visiting us online. Please contact us to plan a visit and experience firsthand the transformative power of our work.

Sincerely,
Rick

Richard Settersten Jr., PhD
Interim Dean
College of Health