Loretta Jemmott

Dr. Loretta Sweet Jemmott is the Van Ameringen Professor in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing and Director of the Center for Health Equity Research at the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing. She is one of the nation's foremost researchers in the field of HIV/AIDS prevention, having the most consistent track record of evidenced-based HIV risk-reduction interventions. As an expert in health promotion research, she has led the nation in understanding the psychological determinants for reducing risk-related behaviors. Her premier contribution is the development of knowledge on how best to facilitate and promote positive changes in health behaviors. Dr. Jemmott's research has changed public policy as it relates to the use of theory-driven, culturally appropriate, evidenced-based HIV risk reduction interventions in community and clinical settings. Dr. Jemmott has received numerous prestigious awards for her significant contribution to the profession, to the field of HIV/STD prevention research and health promotion research, and to the community