معرفی
Zi Yan is the Academic Dean of Health Sciences and Co-Director of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences (SNHS) at Merrimack College. They hold a Ph.D. in Exercise Psychology from Oregon State University, an M.P.H. in Health Behavior and Promotion from Oregon State University, an M.Ed. in Kinesiology from Bowling Green State University, and a B.S. in Psychology from Beijing Normal University.
Dr. Yan's research focuses on the intersection of psychology, public health, and exercise science. They investigate sociocultural and environmental influences on health behaviors, particularly among vulnerable populations such as women, older adults, and individuals with disabilities. Key interests include physical activity promotion, body image, and peer health coaching interventions. Their work emphasizes culturally sensitive strategies to address health disparities and improve well-being.
Publications highlight innovative studies on peer health coaching efficacy, sociocultural factors in exercise motivation, and the impact of digital tools (e.g., Pokémon Go) on physical activity. Recent work addresses pandemic-related mental health challenges in adolescents and diabetes self-management in rural Chinese elders.
- Awards: LeRoy T. Walker Young Professional Award (SHAPE America, 2022), Zampell Family Faculty Fellow (Merrimack College, 2021-2022), Research Fellow (SHAPE America, 2017).
Dr. Yan leads interdisciplinary initiatives at SNHS, fostering collaborations to advance health science education and community outreach programs. Their academic leadership reflects a commitment to integrating research, teaching, and policy to promote equitable health outcomes.
