About Penny

Vice Chancellor for Research & W. R. Kenan, Jr. Distinguished Professor, UNC-Chapel Hill

Education

  • ‍1997: Ph.D. in Physical Anthropology (Human Biology); University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
  • 1992: M.A. in Physical Anthropology (Human Biology); University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
  • 1989: B.A. with Honors in Anthropology/Experimental Psychology; Tulane University, New Orleans, LA

Honors

  • 2020: George A. Bray Founders Award, The Obesity Society
  • 2010: Eli Lilly Scientific Achievement Award, The Obesity Society
  • 2010: Editor’s Choice Reviewer Award, Obesity
  • 2005: Editor’s Choice Reviewer Award, Obesity Research
  • 2005: Delta Omega Society (Honorary Public Health Society)
  • 2002: William T. Grant Scholars Award (National Competition, one of 10 finalists)
  • 1999: North American Association for the Study of Obesity Young Investigator Award (finalist)
  • 1998: Dannon Institute Nutrition Leadership Institute Award
  • 1995: Dissertation Award, Center for Community Partnerships
  • 1993-1995: Dissertation and Applied Research Fellowship, Ford Foundation (allocated to University of Pennsylvania)
  • 1991: University Fellowship, University of Pennsylvania
  • 1989: Arden R. King Prize for Excellence in Anthropology, Outstanding Undergraduate Thesis, Tulane University
  • 1989: Kenneth J. Opat Award, Tulane University