Melinda Sothern, PhD

Melinda S. Sothern, PhD, CEP, Professor Emeritus at LSU Health Sciences Center, is a licensed clinical exercise physiologist and the Jim Finks Endowed Chair in Health Promotion. Renowned for research on pediatric obesity, her work includes widely published articles and three textbooks, notably "Trim Kids" recognized by the National Cancer Institute. Awarded for excellence in research and education, she's a national spokesperson on youth obesity, featured in major media. Over 30 years, she contributed to NIH trials securing $32 million, with $17 million awarded to LSU Health Sciences Center. Dr. Sothern, a reviewer for NIH and scientific journals, advises major corporations.