Rebecca Ellis

Rebecca Ellis is a Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health within Georgia State University's College of Education and Human Development. She co-directs the Psychological Research on Exercise and Physical Activity Promotion Lab and has led the university-wide Desire2Move (D2M) physical activity challenge for over a decade, engaging 1,500+ employees across 40 departments.

Education:

• Doctor of Philosophy, University of Florida
• Master of Science in Exercise and Sport Sciences, University of Florida
• Bachelor of Arts, Oglethorpe University

Research Focus: Dr. Ellis investigates physical activity promotion among inactive and high-risk populations through behavioral science frameworks. Her interdisciplinary work spans gerontology, disability health, and falls risk prevention, emphasizing barrier identification and behavior change mediators. Current projects integrate digital health tools and workplace wellness strategies to enhance intervention scalability.

Publication Trends: Her recent research (2015-2021) demonstrates increasing focus on technology-mediated interventions (mHealth, social media), workplace wellness program evaluation (using RE-AIM framework), and psychological mechanisms like self-compassion in health behavior regulation. Key themes include tailored digital solutions, peer influence in program effectiveness, and context-specific barriers for vulnerable populations.

Scientific Recognition:

• Honored by Georgia State University's Office of Employee Development and Wellness Services for Desire2Move leadership (2018)

Professional Leadership: Dr. Ellis contributes to interdisciplinary initiatives through affiliate roles at the Gerontology Institute, Partnership for Urban Health Research, Center for the Study of Stress/ Trauma/ Resilience, and Center for Movement and Rehabilitation Research. Her Desire2Move program exemplifies translational research with institutional impact.

Laboratory & Programs: As co-director of the Psychological Research on Exercise and Physical Activity Promotion Lab, she leads studies on behavior change mechanisms. The Desire2Move initiative serves as a model for university-based wellness programming, demonstrating longitudinal implementation across diverse employee groups.