Kelly Brownell to Lead Duke University’s Sanford School of Public Policy

Duke University has announced the selection of Kelly Brownell, who currently directs Yale University’s Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity, as dean of its Sanford School of Public Policy. According to a January 30, 2013, news release, Brownell will replace the Sanford School’s founding dean, Bruce Kuniholm, as head of undergraduate and graduate studies, which focus on “child and family policy, national security, international development and many other issues facing society.”

The Sanford School’s announcement highlights Brownell’s work on nutrition policy, as well as his highly publicized stance against “big sodas” and his contributions to both the public and academic discourse on the topic of obesity. “In Kelly Brownell we have a new dean ready to take the Sanford School to the next level after the superb leadership of Bruce Kuniholm,” said Duke Provost Peter Lange. “Kelly has an extraordinary record as a researcher while also being deeply committed to translating his findings into meaningful public policy to improve the lives of people. He understands the deeply interdisciplinary nature of that effort and recognizes how Sanford can be positioned to expand its impact.”