The Physical Activity Policy and Research Evaluation Network Continues as a Special Interest Project (SIP) for Another 5 Years!

The Prevention Research Center at UMass Chan is excited to announce that the Physical Activity Policy and Research Evaluation Network (PAPREN) has been renewed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for another 5 years! The UMass Chan Medical School (UMass Chan) in collaboration with the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) were once again selected to co-lead PAPREN. West Virginia University (WVU) will also be co-leading the Network for the 2024-2029 cycle. PAPREN is funded by CDC’s Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity through the Prevention Research Center Special Interest Project mechanism. The PAPREN Coordinating Center will be led by: Stephenie C. Lemon, PhD, MS (UMass Chan, Multi-Principal Investigator); Jamie Chriqui, PhD (UIC, Multi-Principal Investigator); Christiaan Abildso, PhD, MPH (WVU, Multi-Principal Investigator; and Karin Valentine Goins, MPH (UMass Chan, Coordinator).

PAPREN is a collaborative space for researchers, planners, engineers, policy makers, green space managers, advocates, health professionals and others interested in evaluation research that addresses key evidence gaps and implementation research that identifies evidence-based strategies that improve practitioner capabilities and translation to practice. With nearly 1000 members, half of whom are from the practice and government sectors, the Network offers ongoing opportunities for learning and collaboration. PAPREN is the research partner of the Active People, Healthy Nation^SM initiative of the CDC.