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Guy Hornsby, assistant professor for coaching and performance science in the College of Applied Human Sciences, has been named the Educator of the Year by the National Strength and Conditioning Association.

Hornsby was one of seven recipients of the organization's 2024 Peer Awards recognizing professionals for outstanding achievements in their field. Each individual was nominated by the NSCA community and will be recognized at the national conference in Baltimore in July. 

The Center for ActiveWV recently welcomed nearly 100 leaders from around the state to Stonewall Resort for its 2024 WV Physical Activity Symposium to discuss how to better promote physical activity and health and inspire other organizations to join the initiative.

The symposium also gathered an array of speakers and prominent figures from West Virginia, including:

The West Virginia University College of Applied Human Sciences recognized four for their outstanding contributions to the college during the 2023-24 academic year. Sean Bulger, Dana Musick, Emi Tsuda and Sam Zizzi were recognized among their peers at its annual all-college assembly on May 8.

Sean Bulger was the recipient of the Laddie R. Bell Distinguished Service Award for his demonstrated authentic, servant, and visionary leadership. As Associate Dean for Online Education and Technology, he reimagined master’s programs, developed new online graduate certificates, and strategized a transition plan for the university’s new learning management system. Bulger also led the development of the YOU at WVU app, the CAHS Digital Learning Hub, and the college’s online portfolio. Additionally, he stepped in to serve as the Interim Director for the School of Counseling and Well-Being in January to lead that unit through the conclusion of the academic term. Beyond his administrative roles, he coordinated the master's in physical education online program, served on multiple college and university committees, and mentored key leaders within the School of Sport Sciences. His forward-thinking impact is evident in his efforts to foster excellence, innovation, and continuous development within the academic community.

West Virginia University's martial arts program for individuals with intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities was recently featured on WBOY. (Watch)

The program was initiated by Jeanette Garcia, associate professor, WVU School of Sport Sciences, over the winter.  

Registration is open for the 2024 WV Physical Activity Symposium – Uniting Leaders for an ActiveWV, on Wednesday, May 29, at Stonewall Jackson Resort. The symposium, hosted by ActiveWV in partnership with the West Virginia Department of Health, is aimed at fostering collaboration and action towards a healthier West Virginia.

Registration is free, but limited spots are available. The symposium runs from 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., with breakfast, lunch, and snacks included. ( Register now)

The College of Applied Human Sciences will celebrate Commencement on Sunday, May 12, at 9 a.m. at the WVU Coliseum. Here is a look at several graduates from the College who will be earning their degree this weekend.

Adrianna Wood, with her major in sport and exercise psychology, found a supportive community and practical experiences that fueled her passion for human resources. Heather Bond, a graduate from the health and well-being program, combined her educational passion with her passion for aviation. Rachael Ratliff's path in elementary education was influenced by family and shaped by her practicum experience, while Kylie Coon is one of the first early childhood special education graduates and determined to make an impact. Cody Fisher's switch to physical education and kinesiology led him to find his place in teaching, embracing the opportunities that have prepared him for a fulfilling career.

Sam Zizzi, Pat Fehl Endowed Professor in the College of Applied Human Sciences, has been named the recipient of the 2024 Faculty Award for Distinction in Graduate Research Mentoring.

Sponsored by the Office of Graduate Education and Life, the award was created in the 2018-19 academic year to honor faculty who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the mentorship of graduate students.

West Virginia University’s Eloise Elliott was recently inducted as a fellow into the North America Society of Health, Physical Education, Recreation, Sport and Dance Professionals at the SHAPE America Convention in Cleveland.

Elliott, Ware Distinguished Professor in the WVU College of Applied Human Sciences, was one of eight to be inducted into this year’s class. Fellows must demonstrate outstanding competence through professional involvement over a period of at least 20 years and be engaged in a minimum of two identified aspects of professional contributions (teaching, administration, professional or scholarly literature, and leadership within their discipline or service to the community).

Zabrya Robson, a behavior health counselor at Community Care of West Virginia, came to West Virginia University knowing she wanted to help others. She earned her undergraduate degree at WVU, and then when looking for a master’s program to pursue counseling, she once again chose WVU largely because of the flexibility of the clinical rehabilitation and mental health counseling program.

Sports were an integral part of Makayla Riley’s life growing up in Landover, Md. Her father coached the youth football and basketball teams, and for her part, Riley participated in gymnastics and dance growing up. She also was the team manager for both the football and boy’s lacrosse teams.

It was primarily through the success of West Virginia University’s football and basketball teams that she became aware of the school she would eventually attend.