The native of Puerto Rico previously worked for eight years as a faculty member with Syracuse University’s Department of Exercise Science. An advocate for social justice and diversity, Columna’s work centers on improving physical activity opportunities for children with disabilities, particularly in Hispanic families. Columna has published two books and written numerous peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters. He developed the Fit Families Program, which brings together children with disabilities, their parents, college students, and in-service professionals from a range of fields. Columna earned his Ph.D. from Texas Women’s University in 2007.