Mark B. Stephens

Mark B. Stephens, BA, 1986 graduate of Liberal Arts, MS, 1989 graduate of Kinesiology/Exercise Science

My mentors in the department taught me to problem solve thorough the lens of science and human performance.

Mark grew up in a Penn State family. His father taught religious studies at the Brandywine campus for 25 years. So, it was destined Mark would get his college education at Penn State. He met his wife at Penn State, and they have been married for over 30 years.

As senior year rolled around, Mark realized he didn’t have the grades nor the requisite science background to pursue his interest in the medical field. So naturally, he stayed on and pursued his Masters degree in Exercise Science. Upon graduation in 1989 Mark went to Case Western Reserve University College of Medicine where he graduated in 1993. He completed his residency at Family Medicine Naval Hospital Bremerton (WA) in 1996. Mark gave over 25 years to the US Navy. Upon retirement from his Naval career, it was only natural to "come home" to live and work in Happy Valley.

During his time in Kinesiology Mark’s primary mentor was Dr. Karl Stoedefalke. He and a team of others, including Dr. Larry Kenney, helped teach him how to problem-solve through the lens of science and human performance. They also provided guidance about leadership and working in teams. These skills are essential to comprehensive and holistic healthcare delivery.

Mark has too many Penn State Memories to count! One of his favorites is selling game day programs on Porter Road outside of Beaver Stadium with his wife Patty. Watching the alumni come back to support the Nittany Lions, Mark and Patty regularly said, “One day, that will be us”.

Currently, Mark is the Associate Dean for Medical Education, a Professor of Family and Community Medicine, and a Professor of Humanities at the Penn State College of Medicine University Park Regional Campus in State College.

The Kinesiology department is thrilled Dr. Stephens is back in Happy Valley. Not only is he working with medical students but he often speaks at alumni round tables so he can give back to the department that helped shape his success today.

Mark B. Stephens, BA, 1986 graduate of Liberal Arts, MS, 1989 graduate of Kinesiology/Exercise Science

This profile was published November 2022