Kele Ding

Dr. Kele Ding is an esteemed Associate Professor within the Health Education and Promotion program at Kent State University, widely recognized for his excellence in the field of public health. With a particular passion for addressing drug addiction and mental health challenges, Dr. Ding is deeply committed to expanding our understanding and developing effective interventions in these vital areas. His own academic path, culminating in a Ph.D. in Health Behavior from Indiana University at Bloomington, provided a strong foundation for his influential career dedicated to public health education and research.

Within the classrooms at Kent State, Dr. Ding is celebrated for his engaging teaching style and genuine commitment to helping students succeed. He thoughtfully leads courses covering crucial subjects like program evaluation, behavior theory, and research methods, equipping students with the practical skills they need to thrive in the public health sector. His dedication to teaching has been formally acknowledged through several awards for teaching excellence, highlighting his remarkable ability to inspire and prepare the next generation of public health professionals.

Dr. Ding's research is driven by a desire to tackle pressing issues in drug addiction and mental health head-on. He has played a key role in creating intervention programs focused on mental health recovery, notably directing efforts towards the homeless veteran population. His collaborative work with organizations like the Family and Community Service at Portage County underscores his belief in community-driven solutions and his skill in transforming research findings into tangible, positive actions on the ground.

Beyond his teaching and research, Dr. Ding is actively involved in mentoring doctoral students, offering invaluable guidance as they navigate their academic and professional journeys. His mentorship has been instrumental in shaping the careers of many emerging scholars in the public health field. Furthermore, his active affiliation with the American Public Health Association demonstrates his dedication to engaging with the wider public health community and his commitment to advancing the field through shared knowledge and innovative approaches.

Dr. Ding's significant contributions to public health have been recognized through numerous awards for research excellence right there at Kent State University. His work not only enriches the academic environment but also creates a real, positive impact on community health initiatives. Through his dedicated efforts in research, teaching, and service, Dr. Ding continues to make substantial progress in improving mental health outcomes and confronting the complex challenges posed by drug addiction.