Dr. Larry Armstrong has become interim department head of the Department of Kinesiology. Previous department head Dr. Carl Maresh has returned to research and his academic roots as director of the Human Performance Laboratory and professor in physical therapy.

Armstrong began his career at UConn in 1990 as a member of the Department of Kinesiology and currently holds a joint appointment in the departments of Physiology & Neurobiology and Nutritional Sciences. He is recognized internationally as one of the top scholars in his field, publishing more than 170 articles, two books and 31 book chapters, as well as receiving numerous awards from national organizations.

“In addition to his strong research record, Dr. Armstrong served as interim department head during fall 2007 and did an outstanding job in his leadership role,” said Dr. Thomas C. DeFranco, dean of the Neag School of Education. “Please join me in congratulating Larry as he transitions into his new role.”

“I also want to thank Dr. Maresh for his 15 years of service as department head,” said DeFranco. “Through his leadership, he has elevated the department to new heights, including transforming the doctoral program of Kinesiology into the No. 1 program in the nation.”

“We are very proud of Carl’s and the department’s accomplishments over the years. His hard work and dedication have left a lasting legacy in kinesiology at UConn, the Neag School and circles around the country. We look forward to the next chapter in Dr. Maresh’s career with the Human Performance Laboratory and his continued scholarship efforts,” said DeFranco.

Maresh is a Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor, the highest award bestowed on UConn faculty. It honors faculty who have achieved exceptional distinction in the areas of scholarship, teaching and service, including public engagement, and who excel in at least one.

He has been a faculty member at UConn since 1985, holding joint professorships in the departments of Physiology & Neurobiology and Nutritional Sciences. Maresh is a fellow of both the American College of Sports Medicine and a past member of the National Board of Trustees (Basic and Applied Science) for ACSM. He is also an active fellow in the American Academy of Kinesiology and Physical Education. Among his other professional memberships are the American Physiological Society, the National Strength and Conditioning Association, the New York Academy of Sciences and the American Association of University Professors.