Lori Reichel, PhD, is a passionate educator with over 30 years of experience working with children, youth, and adults in the field of school health education. Recognized for her outstanding contributions, Lori was named National Health Education Professional of the Year in 2010, New York State Health Teacher of the Year in 2007, and New York State Health Professional of the Year in 2011. She currently serves as a full-time faculty member at SUNY Cortland, where she trains future PreK-12 educators in effective, evidence-based health education practices.
Lori’s educational philosophy centers on being student-focused—equipping young people with the life skills and up-to-date health information they need to live their healthiest and happiest lives. While Lori acknowledges that simply presenting health facts in the classroom is easy, she continually challenges herself and her peers with an important question: How can we provide children and youth with the most impactful tools and knowledge for their lives? These tools and facts should be ones that stay with them long after graduation—ones they can share with future generations. Tools that can empower them to lead lives of wellness, foster healthy relationships, and make decisions that affect their well-being for years to come.
In the health education field, skill-based learning—rather than fact-based instruction—is still not the norm. However, research from the past 25 years consistently supports the idea that skill-building has a lasting, positive impact as children transition into adulthood. The skills gained through this approach not only support better health choices but also influence other aspects of life, from romantic and family relationships to parenting, friendships, and career success.
Lori is dedicated to making skill-based health education the standard, not the exception. From her professional and personal experience, she understands that when educators, families, and other professionals work together to touch the hearts and minds of children, it can lead to a generation of young people who are not only comfortable within their bodies but also empowered, strong, and confident. Lori invites you to join her in this mission, one child at a time, to create a healthier, more informed future.