Gary Liguori, Ph.D., FACSM

Gary Liguori is a distinguished professor, scholar, and administrator whose 30-year record of measurable success led him to roles in higher education with increasing responsibility and leadership. He was named the Albert and Suzanne Lord Chancellor of Penn State Abington effective July 1, 2024, following a national search. 

Prior to arriving at Abington, Dr. Liguori served as the provost and vice president of academic affairs at the University of West Florida. He oversaw 14,000 students and 250 faculty; managed academic programs and academic support services; a $95 million budget; and $8 million in annual sponsored research. He was a professor of Movement Sciences and Health.  

Dr. Liguori was the founding dean of the University of Rhode Island College of Health Sciences. He successfully expanded academic programs, faculty research, and university-affiliated health clinics, creating a thriving multidisciplinary college. He directed seven academic departments ranging from neuroscience to psychology, six external clinics including psychological counseling and physical therapy. Dr. Liguori managed a $16 million operating budget and $6 million in annual sponsored research. He developed the college’s inaugural strategic plan and initiated its diversity, equity, and inclusion task force. 

He was previously the head of the Health and Human Performance Department at the University of Tennessee Chattanooga and an associate professor at North Dakota State University. Dr. Liguori’s research and educational interests include health, physical activity, and wellness. He has written over 55 peer-reviewed articles, five books, and sits on the editorial boards of multiple academic journals. 

Dr. Liguori is a fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine and serves on numerous boards and national organizations including on the board of directors of the American Association on Health and Disability. 

Dr. Liguori earned his doctorate in wellness and human development from North Dakota State University, a master’s degree in cardiac rehabilitation/exercise science from East Stroudsburg University, and a bachelor of science degree in fitness/wellness from the University of Central Missouri. 

As chancellor of Penn State Abington, Dr. Liguori is responsible for the quality of academic programs in teaching, research, and service; strategic planning; budgeting; philanthropy; faculty and staff development; outreach; and community and alumni relations.