Kashica Webber-Ritchey

Kashica Webber-Ritchey is an Associate Professor in the School of Nursing at DePaul University's College of Science and Health. With a PhD, MHA, and RN credentials, she serves as a prominent researcher focused on addressing health disparities in underrepresented racial and ethnic groups. Her work integrates nursing practice with public health approaches to promote healthy lifestyles among vulnerable populations.

Dr. Webber-Ritchey's research centers on childhood obesity prevention using parent-child dyadic approaches to promote healthy diet and physical activity behaviors. Her expertise spans quantitative and qualitative research methodologies with rigorous development and implementation of digital surveys. She currently leads a significant mixed-methods project funded through the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Diversity Supplement Award (3R01DK132698-01) as part of the "Black Girls Move" study (2023-2025).

Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong focus on health equity, with consistent themes in childhood obesity prevention, physical activity promotion among Black communities, and addressing health disparities through culturally responsive interventions. Her work frequently employs mixed-methods approaches and emphasizes community engagement to develop effective, sustainable health promotion strategies.

Scientific Awards:

• 2025 Recipient of the College of Science and Health Excellence in Research Committee, Mid-Career Excellence in Research Award
• 2024 Fellow, Illinois Board of Higher Education, Nurse Educator Fellowship
• 2024 Fellow, American Heart Association (FAHA)
• 2023 Recipient of the DePaul University Provost's Award for Excellence in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
• 2022 Feleta Wilson Award, American Public Health Association

Dr. Webber-Ritchey actively mentors students, with numerous publications featuring student co-authors marked with asterisks. Her grant portfolio includes significant funding from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. She serves on multiple committees including the American Heart Association's Research Mentoring Committee and Council Operations Committee, demonstrating her commitment to advancing nursing research and promoting diversity in academia.