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Julia Merwin is set to graduate this May from West Virginia University with a major in Sport and Exercise Psychology. While at WVU, Merwin was a student-athlete and member of the women’s gymnastics team. Additionally, she became certified personal trainer because of her interest in health and fitness. 

Merwin, from Frederick, Maryland, selected the SEP major during the enrollment process at WVU. “After being in the SEP major, I have learned many valuable things that applied to my sport and personal training,” said Merwin.  

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.  

WVU appoints Morris, Watson as deans through 2022

During a time of transition and uncertainty, two experienced West Virginia University administrators currently serving as interim deans will be given extended appointments to continue their service to their colleges. 

Candice Brown, senior sport and exercise psychology major at West Virginia University, received the American Kinesiology Association Undergraduate Student Award for 2019-20 for the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences.

Brown, from Chapmanville, W.Va., was overwhelmed after hearing of her award nomination. “I am extremely honored and grateful to be selected for this award, but I attribute most of my success to my loving family, friends and mentors. Without their constant encouragement and support, I do not believe I would be where I am today.

Cassie Smith, league director for the West Virginia Interscholastic Cycling League, is using sport to jumpstart the road to a long, healthy life for West Virginia teens.

Smith, from Aldie, Va., is a 1993 graduate of West Virginia University with a degree in physical education. As a passionate mountain biker for the last 25 years, Smith works to engage youth in cycling throughout the state of West Virginia.

Coaching and Teaching Studies doctoral student Maggie Roberts is passionate about working with students and helping them progress through their own learning experience. Roberts says the WVU degree program has opened new doors and provided opportunities for future work and experiences. 

Coaching and Teaching Studies, EdD

Alexa Miley's career goals involve becoming an athletic director or working within sport operations or marketing. The WVU Sport Management master's program prepares students to compete in the sport market as an industry leader.

Sport Management (on campus)

Adam Hansell wants to use sport to promote positive outcomes for athletes around the world. He plans to use his graduate degree in Sport and Exercise Psychology to pursue his passion to make the world a better place.

Sport and Exercise Psychology (PhD)

Coaching and Sport Education master's student Kanchana Paromita Venkatesh wanted to dive deeper into strength and conditioning coaching. She chose WVU because it integrated science with the art of coaching.

Coaching and Sport Education

Sarah Gould Wright, B.S. (1995) sport behavior, is all too familiar with the necessities and importance of developing resources needed to thrive. Originally from Cabot, VT, Wright has traveled up and down the east coast serving under-resourced individuals through her commitment to enhancing programs, policies and systems inclusive of these populations.

With her extensive expertise in coaching, leadership and student-development, Wright has directed projects for the greater good of innumerable organizations. Her background includes leading new initiatives and working diligently to transform “good” programs into “award winning” level ones.