Guiding Vision, Fostering Innovation, and Building Resilience
The leadership team at the Institute of Health Resilience and Innovation is composed of accomplished scholars, scientists, and professionals dedicated to addressing the complex factors that shape health outcomes. Their expertise spans a wide range of disciplines—from psychology and sociology to public health, neurology, and community engagement—ensuring a comprehensive and collaborative approach to health resilience and innovation.
Our Leadership Team
Christopher Fagundes, Ph.D.
Director
Kristi English, M.Ed.
Executive Director
Tony Brown, Ph.D.
Deputy Director
Associate Directors
Bryan Denny, Ph.D. – Career and Grant Development Core
Dr. Bryan Denny is a tenured Associate Professor in the Department of Psychological Sciences at Rice University and serves as the Associate Director of the Career and Grant Development Core at the Institute of Health Resilience and Innovation. His research focuses on understanding how emotion regulation affects mental and physical health, using a translational social cognitive neuroscience approach that combines neuroimaging, psychophysiology, and behavioral analysis.
As Associate Director of the Career and Grant Development Core, Dr. Denny oversees initiatives to mentor early-career scientists, provide training on grant development and research methodology, and foster cross-disciplinary collaborations. He also oversees workshops on grant writing, career development, and advanced data analysis, which are key components of the institute’s professional development programs and support trainees in securing NIH funding and advancing their research careers.
Sean I. Savitz, M.D. – Clinical Collaboration Hub
Dr. Sean I. Savitz is a Professor of Neurology at McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) and serves as Co-Associate Director of the Clinical Collaboration Hub at the Institute of Health Resilience and Innovation. He is board certified in both neurology and vascular neurology and is renowned for his expertise in the care and recovery of stroke patients. With extensive clinical and translational research experience, Dr. Savitz is a pioneer in the development of novel therapies for ischemic stroke, with a particular focus on cell-based therapies to enhance recovery after stroke.
As Co-Associate Director of the Clinical Collaboration Hub at the Institute of Health Resilience and Innovation, Dr. Savitz plays a pivotal role in fostering clinical partnerships, facilitating translational research, and ensuring that the institute’s work has direct applications in patient care. His collaborative approach and innovative research have made significant contributions to improving outcomes for patients with neurological disorders.
Marcel de Dios, Ph.D. – Clinical Collaboration Hub
Dr. de Dios is an Associate Professor at the University of Houston, specializing in culturally tailored substance use interventions for Latino populations. His work focuses on behavioral health and improving health outcomes for underserved communities. He co-leads the Clinical Collaboration Hub, ensuring that community health needs remain central to the institute’s research.
Collaborative Leadership for Lasting Impact
The leadership team’s diverse expertise and shared commitment to improving health and resilience through research and innovation are central to the institute’s mission. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and strengthening community partnerships, they ensure that the institute continues to lead in addressing health challenges and promoting well-being for individuals and communities alike.