Rebecca Busanich PhD

Rebecca Busanich PhD
  • Professor
  • Exercise & Sport Science - BS (CFW only) Associate Professor
Dr. Rebecca Busanich is a Professor of Exercise and Sport Science (EXSS) at St. °µÍø½ûÇø (St. Paul, MN). She holds a Ph.D. in Sport and Exercise Psychology from the University of Iowa (’11), a Master's degree from the University of Oregon (’05), and a Bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan (’03). As a cultural sport psychology scholar, Dr. Busanich’s research explores the social and cultural narratives around physical activity, health, and sport, along with the impact that these narratives have on health, health behavior, and the sport experience. In doing so, Dr. Busanich's research helps to amplify the voices of those who are most vulnerable, underrepresented, and/or silenced in sport and exercise settings. In exploring these ideas, Dr. Busanich draws upon social constructionist and critical theoretical frameworks, along with narrative methodologies, to further explore the ways in which narratives are tied to social power and how the meaning-making process underlying health behaviors is influenced by transecting socio-cultural identities. As a result, her work helps to bridge the gaps between the fields of exercise/sport psychology, cultural studies, sociology, public health, and health promotion. At St. Kate’s, Dr. Busanich teaches courses in research methods, sport psychology, health behavior psychology, and serves as EXSS Fieldwork Coordinator and supervisor. She is committed through her teaching, research and service to enhancing the health and well-being of others, and extending her work into the community. Her passion for the field is also demonstrated in her own active lifestyle, as a lifelong runner. Additionally, Dr. Busanich enjoys working with female athletes and exercisers to empower them to excel in all aspects of life, both on and off the field. Her professional work includes serving on the Diversity Committee for the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP) and serving on the Editorial Board for Case Studies in Sport and Exercise Psychology (CSSEP).