IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 21, 2008
CONTACT: Gordon Ovenshine
Office: 724.738.4854
Cell: 724.991.8302
gordon.ovenshine@sru.edu

Worldwide exercise science group elects SRU professor to post

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. – Kimberly Smith, Slippery Rock University assistant professor of exercise and rehabilitative sciences, has been elected student trustee of the American College of Sports Medicine.  She will provide international leadership by helping to enhance research opportunities for exercise science and sports medicine students.

            “I am the voice for students in these programs worldwide. I’ll be gauging the research and professional development needs of students and reporting to the American College of Sports Medicine’s executive board,” Smith said. “I am truly honored to have been elected. I am a strong proponent of getting students involved in ACSM and now I have the perfect opportunity to enhance student involvement, student research and networking and professional opportunities.”

            Members elected Smith to a two-year term in an online vote.

            ACSM has more than 20,000 international members and is the largest sports medicine and exercise science organization in the world. The organization integrates scientific research, education and practical applications of sports medicine and exercise science to promote healthy lifestyles.

            Smith, a 2003 SRU exercise science graduate, joined the organization as an undergraduate.

            “ACSM has been an integral part of my personal and professional development for the past seven years,” Smith said. “As a student, I can remember how inspired I was to witness and experience opportunities afforded to students at both the regional and national levels.  Not only did ACSM provide opportunities to enrich my knowledge and comprehension of sports medicine, but it also provided me with opportunities to present my research, network with professionals, develop my professionalism, and enhance my leadership skills.”

            As an SRU student, Smith received the Sheila Drohan Scholarship and was named the Outstanding Senior in Exercise Science in 2003. 

            After graduating from SRU, Smith earned a doctorate in exercise physiology at the University of Pittsburgh. She joined the SRU faculty in 2006 and teaches exercise leadership, group fitness and wellness promotion and programming. 

Slippery Rock University is Pennsylvania’s premier public residential university. Slippery Rock University provides students with a comprehensive learning experience that intentionally combines academic instruction with enhanced educational and learning opportunities that make a positive difference in their lives.