Deborah Dianne Ricker (born October 1, 1965) is an American reproductive biologist and academic administrator serving as the interim president of Hood College since 2024.
[1] Early in her research, she studied reproductive biology topics, including the effects of platelet-activating factors on sperm motility and fertilization processes across various species.
During her doctoral studies, Ricker's primary advisor was Thomas S. K. Chang, who encouraged her development as a scientist and educator and offered her guidance in balancing academic and personal pursuits.
[1] Her work there included studies on epididymal protein changes following sympathetic denervation and the role of nitric oxide synthase in male reproductive systems.
She collaborated with colleagues Barry and Barbara Zirkin, Arthur Burnett, and Evelyn Barrack, who contributed to her training and research in the division of reproductive biology and the department of urology.
[3] Her research on reproductive biology, combined with her administrative experience, guided her work in supporting academic quality and program structure at York College.
[2] Her work at Hood College includes developing new programs in public health, cybersecurity, and finance and advancing student success and experiential learning initiatives.