ProChange Behavior Solutions is delighted that Co-President and CEO Kerry E. Evers, Ph.D. has been appointed by Rhode Island Governor Daniel McKee to serve on the Board of Directors for the Rhode Island Life Sciences Hub. The goal of the Rhode Island Life Sciences Hub (RILSH) is to position the state to deliver on a bold vision of transforming Rhode Island into a globally recognized life science innovation ecosystem by supporting existing stakeholders, activities, and investments while building new capabilities.
As a senior executive of a Rhode Island-based life science company providing solutions using behavior change science, Dr. Evers’ appointment fills a key position on the board, and she will provide guidance and direction that aims to strengthen the life science sector in RI. Kerry will encourage collaboration and innovation among public, private, and academic institutions. In this past month alone, the RILSH has made great strides, including approving a non-binding agreement with Ancora L&G to develop a laboratory incubator for early-stage companies in Providence, the announcement of $20 million in new grant funding to foster innovation and support of life science companies in Rhode Island and the awarding of $128,810 in the second round of small grants to support research and workforce development in the state.
“I am honored to be appointed by Governor McKee to the board of the Rhode Island Life Science Hub,” said Evers. “Rhode Island has a wealth of talented people in the life sciences who are dedicated to furthering innovation and breakthroughs in their respective fields. I look forward to working with the Governor, Board Chair Neil Steinberg, and other members of the distinguished board to further highlight and develop these resources and position Rhode Island to become a national and international leader in this space.”
Evers, along with fellow life science board members, “are key leaders in the life sciences sector here in Rhode Island…These appointees bring a broad depth of experience that will help ensure that we solidify our position as a national leader in the life science sector for decades to come.”
– Rhode Island Governor Daniel McKee
Dr. Evers brings over 27 years of behavior change science expertise to her role on the board. Under her leadership, ProChange develops and implements evidence-based programs that improve well-being and are utilized by health systems, employers, and organizations worldwide. Evers is also an adjunct faculty member at the University of Rhode Island and has been awarded over $7 million for research grants and contracts from the National Institutes of Health.
Evers has been broadly recognized for her professional success involving behavior change science, as well as her community involvement. In 2023, the American Journal of Health Promotion named her one of the Most Influential Women Leaders in Health Promotion. Most recently, she received a 2024 Business Women Award in the category of Industry Leader: Professional Services from Providence Business News.