The following is the text of an email sent on May 5, 2025.
Dear SPH-B Community:
Please join me in welcoming Jerono Rotich, Ph.D. to the role of Interim Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs. Dr. Rotich earned a Ph.D. in Exercise and Sport Science from the University of North Carolina Greensboro. She joined SPH-B in 2022 from North Carolina Central University, where she served as chair and professor of the Department of Kinesiology and Recreation since 2019.
In her role as Associate Dean for Organizational Climate, Inclusion, and Belonging, Dr. Rotich has cultivated relationships throughout the school, university, and community to foster a sense of belonging, facilitate important discussions, and develop purpose-driven initiatives like All Voices Belong.
Dr. Rotich has led academic initiatives in institutions both domestic and abroad, including facilitating the establishment of the Kinesiology and Sports Institute at the University of The Gambia and developing the Global Understandings Course with Mahatma Gandhi University, in India, and with Dalian University in China. In 2021, she served as a Carnegie Fellow at the University of Nairobi, Kenya. She is truly a global citizen, and her experience over the last several years has perfectly positioned her to fulfill these new responsibilities with continued commitment to inclusion.
"I am honored to step into this role," Dr. Rotich says. "I look forward to key collaborations with our dedicated faculty and leadership teams throughout the school."
Terri Roberts-Leonard will remain in her role as Director of Inclusive Excellence and Belonging. Watch your email and future communications for more information about her initiatives and impact.
While the position of Associate Dean for Organizational Climate, Inclusion, and Belonging has been dissolved, I want to emphasize this: Cultivating an environment of unity and belonging is the responsibility of everyone in SPH-B. Fortunately, I see this happen every day—through mentorship; high-caliber instruction; interdisciplinary collaboration; and the smiles and greetings shared between our faculty, staff, and students. The people of SPH-B are committed to making sure everyone feels a sense of belonging! Thanks to all of you for your commitment to a warm, welcoming culture.
If you have any questions, please direct them to me. Thank you, again, for all you do to make SPH-B a better place for everyone.
Sincerely,
NiCole R. Keith, Ph.D.
Executive Associate Dean