Patricia Reger

Dr. Patricia (Trish) Reger, PhD, PT is the Dean of the College of Health and Sciences (CHS), where the lives of individuals, families and communities are transformed through studies in science and healthcare professions. The programs within CHS provide graduates with a rich educational experience, which equips them with the knowledge, skills and values for meaningful careers, advanced professional training and active roles in local and global communities. The integration of faith, reason and justice within the rigorous and dynamic curriculum adds a dimension to the educational experience that transforms students into graduates who are well prepared to understand and effectively address the future challenges, which they will face in this rapidly changing world.

Dr. Reger assumed the dean position with many years of academic, clinical and administrative experience. She received a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Physical Therapy as well as a PhD in Kinesiology of Temple University. She has been in higher education for over seventeen years and joined Eastern in 2006. Her roles at Eastern University include Professor of Exercise Science, Chair of the Department of Kinesiology, and the Director of the Exercise Science Program. Prior to joining Eastern, Dr. Reger was an Instructor in the Physical Therapy program at Temple University.

As Dean of the College of Health and Science, Dr. Reger plans to move the college forward by developing programs that will bolster academic success and strong Christian leadership as well as creating external partnerships that will provide students with an enhanced academic experience and opportunities for growth outside the classroom. She enjoys working collaboratively with faculty, staff and students in preparing the next generation of health and social science professionals to positively impact individuals and communities.

Licensed in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, she has 31 years of experience in physical therapy practice in multiple clinical environments. Working in a self-employed capacity, she serves as a consultant for the evaluation and treatment of pelvic and foot and ankle dysfunction. Dr. Reger has presented and published research in the cardiovascular benefits of exercise with works including poster and platform presentations, original research in journals such as the Journal of Applied Physiology and the American Journal of Physiology, Heart and Circulatory Physiology and International Journal of Exercise Science. Dr. Reger has also conducted student-guided research with her students in the exercise science program.

Education