PhD Candidate Successfully Defends Her Dissertation, “The Effect of Hypertension, Obesity, and Smoking Status on Resting Heart Rate.”

Kelsey Vander Werff completed her Ph.D. in Health and Human Performance during Concordia-Chicago’s 2019 summer term, having successfully defended her dissertation, titled “The Effect of Hypertension, Obesity, and Smoking Status on Resting Heart Rate.” Vander Werff adds her new title to an impressive list of previous professional accomplishments, including her current role as director of neurosciences at Mountainside Medical Center in Montclair, NJ.

“I chose to seek a doctoral degree to further my knowledge base within human physiology,” Vander Werff said. Vander Werff notes that she chose Concordia-Chicago to pursue her terminal degree because of its “elite reputation for doctoral studies, engaging and multifaceted course curriculum, and unique collaboration with colleagues and faculty from various regions throughout the United States.”

“Kelsey did an outstanding job throughout the dissertation process,” reflects Dr. Ronald Wagner, who advised her progress through the Health and Human Performance program. “She conceptualized a research project that would be beneficial to her in her clinical practice while also honing her research competency.”

Vander Werff’s ambition is to change lives and save them by reducing the prevalence of ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes and cardiovascular disease. “Earning my Ph.D. will open numerous doors and allow me to partner with leaders within my specialty while advancing the neuroscience and stroke field,” she said.

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