The College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences has recognized the recipients of the 2019-2020 outstanding teaching, research and service faculty and staff awards, as announced by Dean Jack Watson.
“I’m especially proud of the faculty and staff who were recognized this academic year for their passion, innovation and expertise. Their outstanding dedication to the college, West Virginia University, the state and beyond is unparalleled. As we end this semester and look ahead, I have no doubt that their Mountaineer values will help guide us through the current challenges, as we navigate these uncertain times,” said Watson.
James Wyant, assistant professor in Physical Education and Kinesiology (PEK), was selected as the Outstanding Teacher of the Year. The college also recognized Allison Hetrick, clinical instructor in Athletic Training, Justin Wartella, teaching assistant professor in Sport Management (SM), Dana Voelker, assistant professor in Sport and Exercise Psychology (SEP), Gonzalo Bravo, associate professor in SM, Kristen Dieffenbach, associate professor in Athletic Coaching Education (ACE), Valerie Wayda, associate professor in ACE and associate dean for undergraduate and academic affairs, Andrea Taliaferro, associate professor in PEK, Eloise Elliott, Ware Distinguished Professor, Sam Zizzi, Dr. Pat Fehl Endowed Professor and associate dean for research for Excellence in Teaching.
Voelker received the Researcher of the Year Award, while the college presented Excellence in Research Awards to Joe Raabe, assistant professor in SEP, Emi Tsuda, assistant professor, PEK, Peter Giacobbi, associate professor in SEP, Sean Bulger, professor in PEK and associate dean for undergraduate and academic affairs, Damien Clement associate professor in SEP and acting dean of the Honors College, in addition to Wyant, Bravo, Dieffenbach, Taliaferro, Elliott and Zizzi.
CPASS presented the Professional Servant of the Year Award to Elliott. Also, the college recognized Scott Barnicle, teaching assistant professor and program coordinator for SEP, Guy Hornsby, assistant professor in ACE, Gary Lhotsky, teaching assistant professor in SM, Bravo, Dieffenbach, Wayda, Taliaferro, Bulger and Zizzi with Excellence in Service Awards.
Taliaferro received the Grantsperson of the Year Award and Elliott earned the SHAPE America Mentor of the Year Award.
Staff members Mary Kinsley, program coordinator, and Carol Straight, advising specialist in the Office of Student Success, were recognized with the Sharon Sisler Excellence in Service Award.