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About Us

We are team of Penn State researchers, supportive staff members, community affiliates, and collaborative partners.

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Mission

At the Child Health Research Center (CHRC), our mission is to enhance the health and wellbeing of children, families, and their communities through pioneering research, interdisciplinary collaboration, training the next generation of professionals, and robust community partnerships.

We are dedicated to conducting rigorous research to unravel the complex factors influencing child development, health, and well-being, with a strong focus on health equity.

Our commitment lies in translating scientific discoveries into practical solutions that shape effective practices, interventions, and public policies, thereby making a positive societal impact on child health with lasting impacts on adulthood.

: At the Child Health Research Center (CHRC), our mission is to enhance the health and wellbeing of children, families, and their communities through pioneering research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and robust community partnerships. We are dedicated to unraveling the complex biological, behavioral, environmental, and social factors that influence child health outcomes including child development, nutrition, and family dynamics, with a strong focus on inclusivity. Our commitment lies in translating scientific discoveries into practical, actionable solutions that shape effective practices, interventions, and public policies aimed at improving child health, thereby making a positive societal impact.

Our research spans the translational continuum and emphasizes the critical role of early interventions and the importance of supportive family and community environments in promoting positive child health outcomes. By integrating insights from diverse fields such as nutrition, biology, psychology, human development, pediatrics, education, and public health, we develop comprehensive, transdisciplinary strategies that address the multifaceted influences on child development, health, and well-being. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by rural and under-served communities, we focus on research and interventions that focus on reducing health disparities. This ensures that our efforts contribute to reducing health inequities and promoting sustainable health outcomes in these communities.

The CHRC is dedicated to training the next generation of researchers by providing comprehensive graduate and undergraduate research experiences. Our programs are designed to foster innovation, critical thinking, and hands-on learning, preparing our students to lead in their future careers and contribute to the advancement of child health research.

Through widespread dissemination of our findings, we aim to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and real-world practice. By engaging with policymakers, community leaders, and healthcare providers, we strive to implement evidence-based solutions that support the well-being and health of all children and families, especially those in underserved communities. Our holistic, ecological approach recognizes the multifaceted, interconnectedness of individual behaviors, family dynamics, social determinants, and policy interventions, creating environments where all children can thrive and reach their full potential.

Guiding Principles

Interdisciplinary Collaboration.

The CHRC is built on the foundation of fostering partnerships across diverse disciplines to develop comprehensive strategies for improving child health. By encouraging collaborative research projects that integrate various perspectives and expertise, CHRC will create innovative solutions that address the complex factors influencing child health. This interdisciplinary approach will allow the CHRC to tackle child health challenges from multiple angles, ensuring that interventions are more effective and sustainable.
Evidence-Based Practice.

At the heart of the CHRC’S mission is a commitment to evidence-based practice. The CHRC will utilize the latest scientific research to inform all areas of work, from research and clinical interventions to community programs. By continuously evaluating and refining practices based on emerging data and outcomes, the CHRC will ensure that its initiatives remain at the forefront of child health science, delivering interventions that are proven to improve health outcomes and adapt to the evolving needs of children and families.
Methodological Excellence.

Built on a strong foundation of rigorous research, the CHRC will support innovative, evidence-based methodologies to advance child health science. Leveraging longitudinal studies, advanced statistical modeling, and community-engaged research, the CHRC will integrate cutting-edge approaches such as physiological measurement, observational coding, real-time data assessment, AI and machine learning, metabolomics, and environmental assessment to drive meaningful impact.
Commitment to Health Equity and Inclusion.

Guided by a dedication to equity, the CHRC will ensure that research translates into meaningful improvements in child health while actively addressing disparities in underserved communities. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, community partnerships, and data-driven solutions, the CHRC will work to eliminate health inequities and promote well-being for all children, regardless of socioeconomic status, race, or geographic location.
Community Engagement & Partnership.

Meaningful community engagement is essential to the CHRC’S mission. By actively involving community members in program development and implementation, the CHRC will ensure that initiatives are relevant, accessible, and effective. Strong partnerships with local organizations, schools, and healthcare providers will enhance the reach and impact of research and interventions, fostering sustainable solutions that improve child health across diverse communities.

History

2025 – Debut of the Child Health Research Center

The Center is rebranded as the Child Health Research Center, reflecting a renewed mission to support all aspects of children’s health and well-being.
2024 – 20th Anniversary Celebration

We celebrate 20 incredible years of advancing research, partnerships, and progress!
2014 – Dr. Jennifer Savage Williams becomes Director

Dr. Jennifer Savage Williams steps into the role of Director, broadening the Center's focus to include community-engaged research and the translation of evidence-based strategies into practice to support child and family health.
2013 – Director Dr. Leanne Birch retires

Founding Director Dr. Leann Birch retires from Penn State, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of nutrition, eating behavior, and child health
2004 – Founding of the Center for Childhood Obesity Research (CCOR)

The Center for Childhood Obesity Research (CCOR) is established under the direction of Dr. Leann Birch to tackle the growing public health challenge of childhood obesity.

Diversity & Inclusion

The College of Health and Human Development joins the University-wide commitment that celebrates our diversity an strengthening our mutual capacities to create an inclusive, safe, and welcoming environment.

HHD Diversity & Inclusion

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About Us

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