Biography
- Executive Director, Consortium to Lower Obesity in Chicago Children, Smith Child Health Research Program, Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute
- Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Education and Background
- PhD, University of Michigan 1999
- MPH, University of Michigan School of Public Health 1994
- BA, Tufts University 1987
Research Highlights
HOUSING, THE ENVIRONMENT, AND HEALTH IN BELMONT CRAGIN
This community-based, participatory research pilot project explores the role of the built environment in health among residents of the Belmont Cragin neighborhood in Chicago. Past activities have included focus groups with school-based parent-peer mentors and members of the youth leadership council, a PhotoVoice project with participants in a multi-generational initiative, and a neighborhood walkability study with youth. A pilot community survey is currently in development to explore the relationships among stressful conditions at multiple levels, protective factors, coping resources, and mental and physical health. Funding was provided by the Alliance for Research in Chicagoland Communities.
EXPLORING PARK USE AND HEALTH IN BIG MARSH AND SURROUNDING NEIGHBORHOODS
This community-based, participatory pilot project explores the relationships among park access and park use, environmental conditions, and health in three park types on Chicago’s far south side. Park types include local park/playground in residential neighborhoods, open greenspace parks on the outskirts of neighborhoods, and a large eco-bike park (Big Marsh). Environmental sensors, a walkability study, and a community survey will help identify the reasons people use and don’t use these parks, environmental exposures in and around the parks, a variety of health-related behaviors, and health status. Funding is provided by the Alliance for Research in Chicagoland Communities.
