Bryce Abbey

Bryce Abbey is an Associate Professor in the Kinesiology and Sport Sciences Department at the University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK), and serves as the Employee Health and Wellness Director. His research focuses on addressing childhood obesity through community programs, school wellness policies, and family-based interventions. He collaborates with the Physical Activity and Wellness Lab and is actively involved in the Greater Nebraska Physical Activity Initiative.

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science (UNK, 2004), advised by Dr. Kate Heelan
• Master of Arts in Education, Exercise Science (UNK, 2006), advised by Dr. Kate Heelan
• Ph.D. in Human Sciences (UNL, 2014), specializing in Nutrition and Health Sciences, with a dissertation on school wellness policy impacts on obesity

Research interests include school-based obesity prevention, implementation science for health programs, and sports nutrition. His work emphasizes rural and micropolitan communities, focusing on cost-effective interventions and program fidelity.

Recent articles highlight trends in pediatric obesity treatment, community program evaluation, and the use of technology (e.g., virtual reality) in medical education. He has explored cost analyses of interventions and qualitative factors influencing program success.

No scientific awards explicitly listed. Advising and grants: Taught courses such as Sports Nutrition, Essentials of Strength and Conditioning, and Gross Anatomy. Collaborates with the Loper Performance Program on sports nutrition and program design. Engages with area sports teams on weight management strategies for athletes.

Labs/Teams: Active member of the Physical Activity and Wellness Lab, contributing to initiatives like the Nebraska CORD 3.0 project. Future work includes expanding community partnerships and disseminating evidence-based interventions to underserved areas.