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Benjamin Gordon, Ph.D., instructional assistant professor in applied physiology and kinesiology, shares advice and tips on how to break up sedentary activity and be more active throughout your day.
Better, faster artificial intelligence is fueling a rise in human-like robots for customer service at places like hotels and airports, especially in areas outside the U.S. But many robots still fail to connect with people, instead creeping us out with fake smiles and jittery movements.
Now, a new measurement scale created by a team of hospitality researchers led by Hengxuan “Oscar” Chi, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management, reveals the four qualities that robots must exhibit to seem lifelike. The scale can help companies and engineers quantify how lifelike their robots are in a way that can guide the development of better, more approachable robots for the service industry.
Out of eight students selected from across the country to attend Venue Management School, three were HHP students. The weeklong event was hosted by the International Association of Venue Managers — an international organization with 7,800+ members, including managers and senior executives from a multitude of venues. Follow the link below to read about our students' experiences.
Dr. Rachel J.C. Fu, Chair & Professor in the Department of Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management discusses the multifaceted positive effects that athletic success can have on local communities. The victories not only inspire unity but also stimulate economic activity, lower crime rates, and enhance the community's overall sense of well-being.
Benjamin Gordon, Ph.D., instructional assistant professor in the Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, describes the benefits of lower intensity, so-called Zone 2, workouts. These workouts could include cycling, dancing, hiking, brisk walking, swimming and others.
Mauren Piucco, M.B.A., L.L.M., has been appointed HHP’s inaugural Associate Director of Finance. Starting November 8, he will begin working alongside HHP’s Finance Director Tracey Phillips and her team to further strengthen the finance office and enhance its service to the departments within HHP. In this role, Piucco’s approach to disciplined and flexible problem-solving will bring valuable support to the finance office, helping to streamline processes and strengthen departmental collaboration.
Meghan Wagner’s (BSHEB ‘09) passion for caring for military service members runs deep, rooted in her own experience as a military family member. Having witnessed first-hand the commitment and resilience that service members bring with them to the job day in and day out, Wagner has always felt a deep sense of commitment to caring for members of our armed forces.
Record summer heat is having an impact on tourists visiting Florida's attractions. The parks are working to remedy the health impacts in myriad ways says HHP's Rachel J.C. Fu, Chair of the tourism, hospitality and event management department and director of the Eric Friedheim Tourism Institute. She adds that including adding more cooling zones and shady areas and adjusting operating hours to be open earlier or later in the day to avoid the heat would also help.
Scott Nestler, Ph.D., CAP, PStat, a national analytics and data science expert, has been appointed Professor of Practice in the Department of Sport Management within the College of Health & Human Performance. Nestler previously taught at the University of Notre Dame and worked for football analytics startup SumerSports. He will also hold a joint appointment in the Warrington College of Business’ Information Systems and Operations Management Department.
Many coastal counties rely heavily on the hospitality and tourism industries as key economic drivers, but they face significant vulnerability to natural disasters, especially hurricanes. Disaster recovery plays a significant role in shaping the impacted county’s tourism potential with long-term impacts depending on the speed, efficiency and sustainability of recovery efforts.
There's genuine concern that concert performances could be cancelled due to the volatility of the band, especially those traveling long distances to see a show. Experts are suggesting travel insurance for any big-ticket concert events.
Rachel Fu, chair of the University of Florida’s tourism, hospitality and event management department and director of the Eric Friedheim Tourism Institute, offers tips on choosing insurance and navigating a dispute.
Benjamin Gordon, Ph.D., instructional assistant professor in the Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, describes proper technique for high-knees exercise that may help improve balance and strength as people age.
Student-athletes in Florida high schools face a unique set of challenges — from enduring summer heat on the field to lacking some key safety services off the field, like access to athletic trainers. But, thanks to Patricia Tripp, Ph.D., LAT, ATC; a dedicated task force; and a sports medicine advisory committee, there are new statewide policies that went into effect on July 1 that should help to address these issues.
The “cuddle hormone” oxytocin may provide pain relief and help curb harmful opioid use according to a two-year interdisciplinary study at UF that examines synthetic oxytocin’s potential as an alternate pain management option for older adults.
Even as locals complain about the rapidly rising cost of entertainment in Las Vegas, the vice president of economic development at UNLV says the city should press to continue its role in “the fun economy.”
Nasim Binesh, an assistant professor at the University of Florida’s Department of Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management, said Las Vegas is well positioned to accommodate guests at a variety of income levels and that overall, the higher prices would benefit the city.
“...it is a city that has effectively tiered its market — providing premium experiences for those who want and can pay and still being accessible to budget-minded visitors. This helps Las Vegas keep its broad appeal, with the rising prices segment and increasing profitability in many areas.”
As summer interns at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, Jordan Rodriguez and Sophia Larralde recently helped advance scientists’ understanding of the environmental impacts of space on astronauts. And their once-in-a-lifetime, hands-on experience as undergraduates brought them much closer to achieving their professional goals.
Diego L. Guarín, Ph.D., assistant professor of applied physiology and kinesiology, is lead author of a current study that uses machine-learning analysis of video recordings to aid in identifying motor symptoms in the early stage of Parkinson’s disease, potentially helping diagnose patients faster than can be done with the human eye.
In collaboration with NASA, Rachael Seidler, Ph.D., a professor in the Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology and the deputy director of the UF Astraeus Space Institute, is studying the long-term effects of long-duration spaceflight on neurocognitive performance. Through this research, Seidler hopes to better understand how spaceflight may impact astronauts who have spent extended time in microgravity, or weak gravity, environments.
Benjamin Gordon, Ph.D., instructional assistant professor in the Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, explains pros and cons of hitting the sauna before or after a workout.
Thomas Clanton, Ph.D., BK and Betty Stevens Professor in the Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, explains how food truck workers in Central Florida are at risk of developing heat-related illnesses.
Read more at Central Florida Public Media >
Garrett Beatty, assistant dean for innovation & entrepreneurship and instructional associate professor in the Department of Applied Physiology and Kinesiology, from the UF College of Health & Human Performance is the recipient of the 2004 Teaching Across the Curriculum AI award. He has evangelized AI adoption at the college and university levels, integrated AI into his courses, and gave students hands-on experience with machine learning and chatbot training. His problem-based learning approach provides students with authentic learning experiences.
After 22-year-old American Margaret Abbott won the women’s golf tournament at the 1900 Summer Olympics in Paris, no gold medal was draped around her neck. There was no standing atop a podium as the Stars and Stripes was raised, no homecoming parade, no photo on the front of a Wheaties box.
In fact, Abbott walked off the course unaware that she had just become the first American woman to win an Olympic event, and she remained oblivious to her place in sports history until her death in 1955.
Benjamin Gordon, Ph.D., instructional assistant professor in the Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, shares how many calories Olympians are required to sustain their rigorous workouts. His calculations have been used by researchers at the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences to develop sample diets that demonstrate how these elite athletes can replenish themselves.
Rachel Fu, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Tourism, Hospitality & Event Management and director of the Eric Friedheim Tourism Institute, and Kyriaki Kaplanidou, Ph.D., professor and director of the Sport Event Management graduate certificate program in the Department of Sport Management, share expertise and context on how the Olympics affects the economy and tourism of its host city.
Diego Guarin, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, discusses a video-processing technique developed at the university that uses artificial intelligence that helps neurologists better track the progression of Parkinson’s disease in patients.
Garrett Beatty, Ph.D., instructional associate professor in the Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, has been appointed HHP’s inaugural Assistant Dean for Innovation & Entrepreneurship. In this role, Beatty’s portfolio will expand to include entrepreneurial endeavors at the college. He will promote corporate investment in students and faculty, commercialization of discoveries and industry visibility.
Congratulations to our exceptional colleagues on their promotions this summer:
PROFESSOR
SENIOR LECTURER
Additionally, three senior faculty members were selected by the university to undergo a newly revised post-tenure review process and were awarded the highest evaluation, Exceeds Expectations.
*Individuals also promoted to Instructional Associate Professor
Garrett Beatty, Ph.D., assistant dean for innovation & entrepreneurship and professor in the department of applied physiology & kinesiology, and Kyriaki Kaplanidou, Ph.D., professor in the department of sports management, discuss the potential role of AI in shaping the Olympics in the years to come.
Patricia “Pattie” Tripp, Ph.D. LAT, ATC, CSCS, clinical professor and associate director of the Doctor of Athletic Training (DAT) Program in the Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, has been inducted into the Athletic Trainers’ Association of Florida (ATAF) Hall of Fame. Members of ATAF’s Hall of Fame are those are who have “supported the athletic training profession through state activities, worked to establish the profession of athletic training and have been involved in the caring of athletes in Florida.”
Rachael Seidler, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, has been appointed as Deputy Director for the UF Astraeus Space Institute. In this role, Dr. Seidler will collaborate closely with Director Rob Ferl, overseeing a range of space-related research initiatives across campus and throughout the state of Florida.
Brian D. Avery, lecturer in sports management, shares tips on how to stay safe from extreme heat at outside events this summer.
This week, Michael Reid, Ph.D., dean of the College of Health & Human Performance at the University of Florida, announced that Alisha Katz, APR, will lead the college's communications team.
Katz is the former associate account director for Real Chemistry, a global health innovation company. In her new role, she will oversee all marketing and communications for the college and will serve on the dean’s leadership team.
Benjamin Gordon, Ph.D., instructional assistant professor in applied physiology and kinesiology, explains why starting an exercise routine can be painful initially and how our body gradually adapt.
Benjamin Gordon, Ph.D., instructional assistant professor in applied physiology and kinesiology, shares his expertise on the pros and cons of the cold water plunge.
Evangelos Christou, Ph.D., professor in the Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, has been honored as a Fellow in the National Academy of Kinesiology. The academy honors individuals who have contributed significantly to the study of and application of the art and science of human movement and physical activity.
Dr. Christou joins seven college faculty also recognized as fellows.
Rachael Seidler, Ph.D., professor in applied physiology and kinesiology, shares her expertise on spaceflight’s affects on neuroplasticity on the “Your Brain On” podcast.
The UF College of Health & Human Performance recently celebrated the unveiling of our updated donor wall, honoring those who have supported our mission over the years. Discover how their generosity is helping us move forward and shape a brighter future.
Jalie A. Tucker, Ph.D., M.P.H., Mary F. Lane Endowed Professor in the Department of Health Education and Behavior, is among UF’s most productive and promising researchers named to the 2024 cohort of UF Research Foundation Professors.
Dr. Tucker, a clinical psychologist and public health expert, focuses on alcohol misuse prevention and recovery.
The tragic death of a rugby league player due to exertional heat stroke is a reminder of the life-threatening nature of the condition. Orlando Laitano, Ph.D., assistant professor in applied physiology and kinesiology, shares his research on exertional heat stroke.
Congratulations to Meredith Berry, Ph.D., assistant professor in health education & behavior, for being recognized with the 2024 Excellence Award for Assistant Professors — one of the university’s top awards for a junior faculty member.
This year, the University of Florida College of Health & Human Performance hosted four celebrations recognizing senior faculty and their endowed appointments, three of which were conferred to faculty during the ceremony.
The ceremonies, rooted in academe, mark a significant milestone in the career of the accomplished scholar.
Congratulations to the graduating Class of 2024! The University of Florida College of Health & Human Performance celebrated the graduation of 152 master’s and 388 bachelor’s degree recipients on Thursday, May 2.
On April 25, the University of Florida College of Health & Human Performance honored Thomas Clanton, Ph.D., as the Billy K. and Betty C. Stevens Professor in Applied Physiology and Kinesiology. The ceremony celebrated Dr. Clanton's contributions to the field, specifically within the realm of muscle physiology and stress responses.
On April 12, the University of Florida College of Health & Human Performance recognized 16 alumni, faculty, staff, students and friends making an impact within The Gator Nation and beyond.
These honorees are a source of inspiration and pride.
The 2024 D.K. Stanley Day Committee and the College of Health & Human Performance welcomed the university and greater community to a special lecture and poster symposium in celebration of our first dean and the college's commitment to enhancing the quality of life.
The day kicked off with the lecture, “What’s a brain for: A moving story," from Daniel M. Wolpert, Ph.D., professor of neuroscience and principal investigator at the Zuckerman Institute, Columbia University. Dr. Wolpert shared his research focusing on the fundamental question: Why do we and other animals have brains?
Elisabeth Barton, Ph.D., professor in applied physiology and kinesiology, shares her advice with Time about resistance exercise and muscle-building supplements.
Heather Gibson, Ph.D., professor in tourism, hospitality and event management, received the 2024 Distinguished Researcher Award from the Academy of Leisure Sciences. This prestigious accolade acknowledges Gibson's exceptional contributions to research and service within the realm of leisure studies and associated disciplines.
From all of us in the College of Health & Human Performance – thank you to our graduate students. You are a critical part of our college and we are grateful for everything you do.
Learn about activities happening throughout the week of April 1-5.
On February 29, the University of Florida community and distinguished guests celebrated the induction of David Vaillancourt, Ph.D., as the Orchid Chair in Applied Physiology & Kinesiology.
Dr. Vaillancourt's lecture highlighted his research in Parkinson's disease including his early focus on the substantia nigra, a region crucial in Parkinson's pathology, that led to the development of a novel imaging technique—the first MRI-based progression marker for the disease.
New research published today suggests there is a link between abnormal blood levels of amyloid — a protein associated with Alzheimer’s disease — and subtle changes in brain microstructures on a type of MRI, findings that could lead to a new way to detect Alzheimer’s earlier in people with no clinical signs.
“Previously people would say one of the earliest events you would see is amyloid positivity in the brain on a PET scan,” said David Vaillancourt, Ph.D., Orchid Chair and Professor in Applied Physiology & Kinesiology. “Our findings suggest there seem to be events occurring both in the blood and in the brain before you detect amyloid positivity in the brain.”
The 2024 D.K. Stanley Day Committee and the College of Health & Human Performance invite the university and greater community to this special lecture and poster symposium in celebration of our first dean and the college's commitment to enhancing the quality of life.
The day kicks off with the lecture, "What's a Brain For: A Moving Story," from Daniel M. Wolpert, Ph.D., professor of neuroscience, principal investigator at the Zuckerman Institute, Columbia University.
If you’re planning to go into the hospitality industry, the pathway is increasingly going to involve some sort of familiarity with AI. That’s one of the key messages in “Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Robot Applications in Hospitality Businesses,” a new book by Rachel J.C. Fu, Ph.D., chair and professor, Department of Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management.
Congratulations to our newest Gators! The College of Health & Human Performance (HHP) gives you an education unlike anywhere else. Here, you have the opportunity to study, explore and make a profound difference in people’s lives. We empower students with the tools, knowledge and confidence to fulfill their dreams and become remarkable assets to their communities.
At HHP, you will gain more than just an education – we are confident you will also find a home.
The sixth annual “Stand-Up and Holler: Gator Nation Giving Day” was held on Thursday, February 15. On this day, Gators from around the world donated to various causes across the University of Florida and College of Health & Human Performance.
Happy Valentine's Day! In celebration of the occasion, we share two relationships that recently blossomed in the College of Health & Human Performance.
Meet Mariana Franz and Austin Unger, and Chris Sato and Chelsea Robalino.
Rachel J.C. Fu, Ph.D., chair and professor of the Department of Tourism, Hospitality and Event Management, discusses the future of tourism and how Formula One and other big events look set to drive growth in the hospitality industry.
At the University of Florida College of Health & Human Performance, we’re advancing the way we live, work and play by promoting healthy living, training the next generation, enhancing physical performance and enriching lives.
Congratulations to the 2023-2024 UF College of Health & Human Performance Educators of the Year celebrating Stephen Coombes, Ph.D.; Doctoral Dissertation Mentor of the Year; Anna Gardner, Ph.D., Teacher of the Year; and Jenny Neelands, Advisor of the Year.
Benjamin Gordon, Ph.D., instructional assistant professor in applied physiology and kinesiology, shares his advice with the New York Times on creating an exercise plan you can actually stick with — and enjoy.
Congratulations to Christopher Janelle, Ph.D., professor in applied physiology and kinesiology, on his promotion to senior associate dean for academic affairs at the UF College of Health & Human Performance. Michael Reid, Ph.D., dean, recently announced Dr. Janelle’s promotion.
A majority of people traveling abroad alone these days are women, and demand for women-led tour groups is rising. Stephanie Sy talked with Heather Gibson, professor of tourism, hospitality and event management, for a segment on PBS NewsHour.
Mark your calendars this spring for several college-wide events including faculty recognition ceremonies, spring awards and commencement.
The University of Florida is embarking on a multi-faceted initiative to propel the university to the global stage in sports performance, healthcare, and communication, while illuminating its world-class sports facilities and partnerships.
