Lori Ploutz-Snyder, PhD

An accomplished leader with extensive experience in higher education, government, and space research organizations, Dean Lori Ploutz-Snyder's proven ability to adapt and excel in diverse settings is demonstrated by successful leadership at higher education institutions, NASA, and university consortiums.

With documented success in pioneering research, developing strategic plans, outstanding hiring decisions, and securing significant funding, she is committed to teaching, mentoring, and service, with a focus on enhancing opportunities for all.

Prior to her time at U-M, Dean Ploutz-Snyder was Lead Scientist for the Exercise Physiology and Countermeasures Project at the NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX, where she received multiple awards for her work, including the Directors Group Achievement Award; Software, Robotics and Simulation Division’s Elite Team Award; and Life Sciences Recognition of Excellence. She also held adjunct full professorships in the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Texas Medical Branch and in the Department of Health and Human Performance at the University of Houston. Before moving to NASA, Dean Ploutz-Snyder held several positions at Syracuse University, including Professor and Chair of the Department of Exercise Science.

Dean Ploutz-Snyder has guided the School of Kinesiology through a period of strategic growth -- enhancing academic excellence, student success, operational efficiency, administrative infrastructure, and cost-effectiveness. 

During her tenure as dean, the School of Kinesiology has:

• had a transformative $120M building renovation;
• doubled the operating budget from $16M to $34M;
• increased the number of incoming fall students from 300 to 400 annually;
• expanded the faculty from 49 to 78 members;
• developed five new graduate and undergraduate degree programs; and
• significantly increased fundraising, growing the endowment from $13M to $31M.

Dean Ploutz-Snyder earned her PhD at Ohio University and was a postdoctoral fellow at Michigan State University, where Dr. Ronald Meyer served as her advisor.