Emory University is proud to honor Reynaldo Martorell, Robert W. Woodruff Professor of International Nutrition and chair of the Hubert Department of Global Health at the Rollins School of Public Health (RSPH), as the recipient of the 2008 Marion V. Creekmore Award for Internationalization.

The Creekmore Award, named for Emory’s first Vice Provost for International Affairs Marion Creekmore, was established in 2000 by Coca-Cola executive and Emory benefactor Claus M. Halle and is given each year to an Emory faculty member who excels in the advancement of the University's commitment to internationalization.

Born in Honduras, Martorell’s research focuses on the fields of nutrition and human biology, including maternal and child nutrition, child growth and development, the significance of early childhood malnutrition for short and long term human function, and the emergence of obesity and chronic diseases in developing countries. Martorell is recognized internationally for his groundbreaking longitudinal studies in maternal and child nutrition and for his research on micronutrient malnutrition.

“As an overwhelmingly respected leader in his field, Dr. Martorell has improved the lives of countless citizens of the developing world,” said Vice Provost for International Affairs and Chair of the Creekmore Award Selection Committee Holli Semetko. “His voice in the struggle to fight malnutrition can be heard around the world.”

Martorell has led the Department of Global Health since 1996. During his tenure, the department has significantly expanded the size of its faculty and student body as well as its research base and academic programs. The author of over 170 articles, over 80 book chapters and scientific proceedings, and over 20 books and monographs, Martorell serves as a member of the Advisory Council of Emory’s Global Health Institute, the Institute for Developing Nations, and Emory’s International Affairs Council. Martorell is vice-chair of the Pan American Health and Education Foundation Leadership, a director of the International Nutrition Foundation, and is as an advisor to UNICEF, the World Health Organization, and the World Bank.

Prior to joining Emory in 1993, Martorell held positions at Cornell University, Stanford University, and the Institute of Nutrition of Central America and Panama (INCAP) in Guatemala.

“Dr. Martorell has done much to build Emory’s visibility on the world stage, and I can think of no one more deserving of this honor,” said RSPH Dean James W. Curran. “In addition to his prolific research, writing, leadership, and service, Rey’s steadfast dedication to his family and colleagues is admired by all.”

The recipient of a number of awards and honors, Martorell was elected to the Institute of Medicine and the National Academy of Sciences, and in 2003, received the International Nutrition Prize from Kellogg’s and the American Society for Nutrition, the Thomas Sellers Award from RSPH in recognition of his exemplary service as a faculty member, and was recognized by the Institute of Nutrition of Central America and Panama for his distinguished contributions to nutrition research and training.

Martorell received a bachelor's degree in anthropology from St. Louis University and a PhD in biological anthropology from the University of Washington.

Martorell will be honored at the International Awards Dinner on March 31, 2008. For more information on the Creekmore Award, including past winners who were part of this year’s selection committee, visit www.international.emory.edu/sub-awards.htm#creekmore.