Attracting the Best
The University of Connecticut’s doctoral program in kinesiology is recognized as the best in the country by the American Academy of Kinesiology and Physical Education. A top ranking and strengths in athletic training, exercise science and sport management have helped the kinesiology department attract some of the nation’s most esteemed scholars.
Professor Linda Pescatello ’77 ’81 ’86 is nationally known for her work in kinesiology, cardiovascular physiology, exercise genomics and hypertension. She holds a primary appointment in the Neag School of Education as well as joint appointments in the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Pescatello’s impressive body of research has been funded by the American Heart Association, the National Institutes of Health and the U.S.D.A. Knowing her credentials could take her anywhere, Pescatello chose to stay at UConn after earning bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees.
“I feel UConn has what I require: high-quality students, outstanding programs and exceptional colleagues,” she says. “I have a love for the University.”
Pescatello and an interdisciplinary team of researchers and students currently are examining the effects of exercise on blood pressure and investigating how genetic variances can alter a person’s response to exercise.
“In time, we will be able to refine people’s exercise prescriptions based on their genetic and clinical presentations,” she explains. “I always thought my life’s work would be dedicated to enhancing sports performance. Now, I realize what I do is about health. This research will have a real impact on people’s lives.”
