History

The Centers for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine arose from the Division of Behavioral Medicine founded in 1976 by Michael Follick, PhD, at The Miriam Hospital. The Centers were the first programs of their kind in the state of Rhode Island. David Abrams, PhD, was the division's first director of research in 1980. He became division director in 1988. 

The Centers were established in 1990 at The Miriam Hospital, with the goal of becoming the Brown University designated Centers for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine. In 1998, the Centers for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine were officially designated as representing Brown Medical School and the Lifespan Academic Medical Center's programs for research and training in Behavioral and Preventive Medicine.   In 2005, Bess Marcus, PhD was appointed Director of The Centers for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine.

Over the past twenty-five years, the Centers have experienced tremendous growth.  The Centers have generated a cumulative total of over $113 million in external research revenue support since their creation. The dedicated faculty and staff have allowed the Centers to earn a national and growing international reputation as leaders in the field.