Associate Extension Professor
Physical Therapy, College of Health Sciences
location_on
214 Gentry Hall
Columbia
MO
65211
phone
Contact Kelsey Weitzel

Professional background

Kelsey J. Weitzel is an Associate Extension Professor with the University of Missouri Extension, where she has worked since 2016 to improve the health and well-being of Missourians through evidence-based community programs. Her work focuses on healthy aging, fall prevention, and the design, delivery, and evaluation of physical activity interventions for older adults. She manages the statewide Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program and has supported its expansion into partner states, reaching thousands of participants. Kelsey also served as Missouri’s state lead for Tai Chi for Arthritis and Falls Prevention from 2018–2023 and currently co-chairs the Missouri Fall Prevention Coalition.

Areas of work

Kelsey can help with:

  • Program development, training, and statewide implementation of evidence-based falls prevention programs.
  • Research and evaluation of physical activity, healthy aging, and community-based health interventions.
  • Supporting MU Extension field faculty and program instructors through training, curriculum development, and technical assistance.
  • Building partnerships with the Aging Network, healthcare providers, and community organizations to expand reach and sustainability of health promotion programs.
  • Translating exercise science and psychology research into practical, accessible information that supports healthier living and improved longevity.
Kelsey Weitzel