The kinesiology expert previously served as associate dean of the College

The University of Rhode Island College of Health Sciences has appointed Deborah Riebe as interim dean of the College, replacing former Dean Gary Liguori. Riebe, an international leader in the development of physical activity interventions to improve health, previously served as associate dean of the College.

Riebe, a professor of kinesiology, focuses her research around the development of physical activity interventions for a variety of populations, including apparently healthy adults, older adults and individuals with common chronic diseases, including obesity. She regularly works with interdisciplinary teams focused on physical activity and exercise, nutrition, and behavior modification. She has received funding from the American Cancer Society, the National Institutes of Health, and the Champlin Foundations to support her research.

Riebe is a Fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and of the National Academy of Kinesiology. She is the current chair of the Exercise is Medicine Credentials Committee, and served as editor of ACSM’s Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, 10th edition. In addition to her national service, Dr. Riebe also served regionally as President of the New England Chapter of ACSM.

“Deb brings an extensive and impeccable level of leadership, teaching, research and outreach experience to the position,” URI Provost Barbara Wolfe said in announcing Riebe’s appointment.

Riebe is expected to assume her new role Jan. 23, replacing Liguori, who accepted a position as provost at the University of West Florida.