Kinesiology

Congratulations to Dr. Dyson on Becoming a 2024 National Academy of Kinesiology Fellow

Posted on October 10, 2024

Man giving a speech.
Dr. Dyson provides the New Fellows’ response.

On September 28, Dr. Ben Dyson was inducted into the National Academy of Kinesiology (NAK) as 2024 Fellow. The NAK is a prestigious organization with 100 years of rich history contributing to the area of Physical Education and the discipline of Kinesiology.

Dr. Dyson is a Professor in the Department of Kinesiology at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. He is an internationally recognized scholar in Health and Physical Education in the areas of innovative curriculum and pedagogy, Cooperative Learning (CL) as a pedagogical practice, and scholarship in Social and Emotional Learning. Currently, he is partnering with Guilford County School teachers and students on his research. Dr. Dyson has taught at McGill University in Montreal, Canada, the University of New Hampshire, the University of Memphis, and the University of Auckland, New Zealand. Dr. Dyson has presented at 120 national and international conferences and has published over 100 refereed research articles, editorials, book chapters, and books. He was the Scholar Lecture for SIG 93 at the American Education Research Association in 2023. Dr. Dyson was inducted as Fellow number 648 to the National Academy of Kinesiology in September.

By reflecting on his accomplishment, Dr. Dyson states, “I was honored to become Fellow number 648 in the National Academy of Kinesiology. I was fortunate to be nominated to provide a brief response on behalf of the new Fellows at the Banquet dinner. These new fellows represent an extremely talented and highly engaged group of academics and world class scholars. These Professors will no doubt continue to contribute to the field of Kinesiology in an impressive manner.”

Two people standing in front of a wall.
Dr. Jennifer Etnier describes Dr. Dyson’s numerous accomplishments.
Three people taking a picture.
Dr. Etnier, Dr. Dyson, and Dr. Sam Hodge (NAK President) 

Dr. Dyson described the occasion as “a highly productive networking and learning experience” where he was able to meet the 15 new Fellows along with a wide range of scholars from many different disciplines in Kinesiology.

Visit the NAK website to learn more about Dr. Dyson and the rest of the 2024 Class of NAK Fellows.

Check out the EdD in KIN website for more information about the program.

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Kinesiology

Spooky But Safe: A Caregiver’s Guide to Halloween with Dementia

Posted on October 31, 2024

Woman carving pumpkin

PAC Lab Article Written By Brittany Armstrong

Halloween can be full of spooky fun, but it might also bring challenges if you’re caring for someone with dementia. With some planning and kindness, you can help them stay calm and comfortable on this festive night.

Keep the Routine
People with dementia feel safest when things are familiar. Try to keep the day as normal as possible by sticking to the usual schedule. Doing normal activities can help reduce confusion, especially if there are decorations or costumes around.

Limit Scary Surprises
Scary costumes, fake cobwebs, and spooky sounds might feel fun to us, but to someone with dementia, they can be upsetting or confusing. Try to keep Halloween decorations friendly and avoid scary masks or flashing lights.

Handle Trick-or-Treaters with Care
If lots of doorbell ringing could cause anxiety, think about turning off your porch light and putting up a “No Trick-or-Treaters, Please” sign. This can help keep the home quiet and peaceful. Another option is to sit together by the door, giving out candy together. This lets you keep an eye on things and even make trick-or-treating a friendly, shared experience.

Offer a Calm Space
If things get overwhelming, it’s helpful to have a quiet room where your loved one can rest. You might play soothing music or a favorite TV show. If it’s too noisy outside, consider closing the blinds and turning off outdoor lights.

Enjoy Simple Halloween Fun Together
Not all Halloween traditions have to be intense! You could carve a pumpkin, bake Halloween cookies, or even watch a funny Halloween show together like “Bewitched” or “The Addams Family” reruns. These activities can create happy memories without too much stimulation.

Halloween can be enjoyable for everyone with a little thoughtfulness and planning. Taking steps to keep things calm and cozy can help your loved one feel safe and included in the celebration.

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Kinesiology

Kinesiology Professor, Grad Inducted into NAK

Posted on October 10, 2024

KIN Kinesiology HBCU MSI Open House
former Ph.D. Student Yu Kai Chang

Kinesiology Professor Dr. Ben Dyson and former Ph.D. Student Yu Kai Chang were recently inducted as Fellows into the National Academy of Kinesiology (NAK). Fellows are nominated by their peer fellows, evaluated by a membership committee according to criteria set forth in the Academy’s bylaws, voted into membership by the voting members of the Academy, and then inducted at a ceremony held at the association’s annual meeting.

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Kinesiology

Kinesiology professor discusses ACL injuries in young females

Posted on September 30, 2024

Dr Shultz focuses on preventing ACL injuries in girls

girls first become susceptible to ACL injuries at age 12. Girls develop a 20-30% smaller ACL than boys.
If we can screen for these developmental signs before we get to that point, we can potentially prevent some injuries

Dr. Sandy Shultz, Kinesiology professor and director of the Center for Women’s Health and Wellness. Dr. Shultz is focused on optimizing the ACL development while it’s growing.

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Kinesiology

Award-Winning Documentary Explores Alzheimer’s Through Family Memories

Posted on September 25, 2024

Nature Polaroids in a Pile

PAC Lab Article Written By Chad Wessinger

In Cycle of Memory, winner of “Best of the Festival” at the 2022 Sunset Film Festival, filmmaker Alex Leff and his brother Koby Leff embark on a heartwarming, yet emotionally charged journey to retrace the 1945 bicycle adventure of their grandfather, Mel. Not only is this documentary a trip down memory lane, it’s also a reflection on intergenerational connections and the impacts of Alzheimer’s disease.

This film follows the brothers as they attempt to recreate their grandfather’s cherished bike trip, guided by old photographs from Mel’s past. Along the way, they confront not only the past but also their own emotional struggles and tense relationship. As they uncover more about their grandfather’s life, the brothers face the reality of memory loss, brought on by Mel’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis. However, it’s not just Mel’s memories they seek—it’s a deeper understanding of their family legacy and how they fit within it.

With the help of their grandmother, Mel’s lifelong friend and co-adventurer, and decades old family films, Cycle of Memory explores the challenges of preserving memories and the importance of passing down stories before they are lost. By combining personal narratives with broader themes of memory, aging, and the effects of dementia, the documentary connects with viewers on multiple levels.

In the United States alone, over six million people are living with Alzheimer’s disease, affecting millions more who find themselves in caregiving roles. Cycle of Memory doesn’t just highlight the tragedy of memory loss but also sparks conversations about how families can maintain connections in the face of such challenges. It asks: What are the important conversations we have with our parents and grandparents while they still remember? How do we hold onto connection with our loved ones as they lose their memory? What do we want to make sure is passed down and saved before it’s too late?

As Alzheimer’s continues to touch families across generations, Cycle of Memory resonates with audiences both young and old. Through screenings, discussions, and partnerships with Alzheimer’s and dementia organizations, the film seeks to expand the conversation on memory loss, aging, and the importance of family stories. Ultimately, Cycle of Memory leaves viewers with an uplifting reminder that, even in the face of memory loss, some connections can never be forgotten.

To find out more about this film, visit cycleofmemory.com.

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UNCG Physical Activity and Cognition Lab Attends 2024 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference

Posted on September 09, 2024

Collage of Pictures from Conference

PAC Lab Article Written By Brittany Armstrong

Last month, five team members from Dr. Etnier’s Physical Activity and Cognition Lab (PAC Lab) attended the 2024 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) in Philadelphia, PA. The conference, spanning five days, is the world’s largest and most influential gathering dedicated to dementia research, bringing together experts, clinicians, and scholars from across the globe. Representing UNC Greensboro, PAC Lab team members Dr. Jenny Etnier, Dr. Lexy Ganesh, Dr. Emily Bechke, Dr. Shin Park, and doctoral candidate Chad Wessinger were in attendance.

Throughout the event, the PAC Lab team members actively engaged in networking with leading Alzheimer’s researchers, attended keynote presentations, and participated in a variety of sessions focused on groundbreaking discoveries in diagnostics, treatment options, and preventative strategies related to dementia.

Notably, the team was also invited to present research related to the Physical Activity and Alzheimer’s Disease 2 (PAAD2) study! Dr. Bechke presented on biomarkers of amyloid-β pathology and inflammation, Dr. Ganesh presented on the effect of exercise on hippocampal volume, and Chad Wessinger, MS presented on diet and executive function.

Student Standing by Conference Poster
Scientist Standing by Conference Poster

The AAIC provided the PAC Lab team with an invaluable platform to exchange ideas with fellow researchers and learn about cutting-edge methodologies. The conference experience offered insights that will likely inform and inspire the lab’s research initiatives moving forward.

The team also made time to have a little fun!

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Promotion for Alumna Jen Cole in UAH Athletics

Posted on September 30, 2024

A woman in a white shirt.

Jen Cole, a 2019 EdD in KIN graduate, began a new position at The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) as the Associate Athletic Director for Student-Athlete Affairs, Senior Woman Administrator, and Athletics Healthcare Administrator. Her role there is to ensure the institution complies with NCAA DII legislation.  

Her position has many elements, but the main ones include eligibility, financial aid, and recruiting. She started at UAH in 2012 as an athletic trainer, transitioned to the assistant volleyball coach, and most recently was the assistant director of compliance in 2021. Her experience at the institution and her relationships with campus partners, the GSC conference, and Division II made her a good fit for the position. She learned about the specific compliance-related responsibilities in the last 3 years, and that has been a strong foundation for continuing to enhance the athletic compliance office at UAH. She also notes, “my two toddlers probably prepared me the most though, learning to juggle 100 balls in the air and regulate emotions has been a game-changer for efficiency in the workplace.” Jen is most excited about representing UAH and empowering the student-athletes in new ways as the landscape of college athletics evolves. 

Jen credits UNCG for teaching her how to problem solve and communicate with colleagues in a way that creates positive change. Being at UNCG “completely changed and enhanced the way I thought, processed, evaluated and communicated as a professional and as a human.” The skills she learned reached into her personal life as well. Jen encourages those who are interested in developing as a professional and as a person to consider enrolling in the EdD in KIN program. “This program is transformative and the relationships and network that you gain is second to none.” 

Visit the EdD in KIN website for more information about the program.

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Kinesiology

Congratulations to Our Newest EdD in KIN Graduates

Posted on September 23, 2024

Featured Image for Congratulations to Our Newest EdD in KIN Graduates

In May, we hosted the Dissertation Showcase at Union Square. Our graduating students shared the key takeaways from the dissertation work through their visual abstracts and a short presentation in one of four categories (education and coaching, college populations, special populations, and physical activity impacts). This led to some great conversations with attendees. It was wonderful to hear how the students’ dissertation work is making an impact.

Group of people posing in front of a wall
Group of people posing in front of a wall
Group of people in front of a wall

We celebrated the accomplishments of the group and their upcoming graduation at Oden’s Brewery. Family and friends joined the festivities for an evening of smiles and laughter. 

Group people sitting at a table
Group of people sitting at a table
Group of women posing for a photo

We had 20 students graduate with their Doctor of Education in Kinesiology (listed below). In addition, three of our graduate assistants earned their master’s degrees. Maggie Best graduated with her Masters in Kinesiology with a concentration in Sports Medicine. Agustin Saldana graduated with his Masters in Kinesiology with a concentration in Exercise Physiology. Jane Bodinger graduated with her Masters in Sport and Exercise Psychology. We are super thankful for their hard work and will miss them! Congratulations to all our graduates!!!

Class of 2024 Graduates

Katie Baur

Amanda Bireline

Justine Boggs

Devin Cashman

Kirstie Vitatoe

Donovan Dinson

Mona Flynn

Marek Gaddy

Aslynn Halvorson

Loretta Holmes

Sabrina Johnson

Tyler Johnston

Alessa Lennon

Mandy Northcutt

Kara Schwab

Brian Sutton

Jenny Thornton-Brooks

Brandon Warner

Garrett Wingate

TJ Zinke

Visit the EdD in KIN website for more information about the program.

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Kinesiology Professor Receives National AASP Award

Posted on September 03, 2024

Kinesiology Professor Receives National AASP Award
Kinesiology Professor Receives National AASP Award

 Kinesiology professor Dr. Alan Chu was selected for the 2024 Association for Applied Sport Psychology Dorothy V. Harris Memorial Award. The award is given to professionals early in their careers who are impacting sport psychology.

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2024 AAIC Highlights

Posted on August 27, 2024

Conference Room

PAC Lab Article Written By Kylie Kayser

The 2024 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC), held July 28th to August 1st in Philadelphia, PA, brought together thousands of researchers, clinicians, and leaders from around the globe to share groundbreaking research and innovations in the field of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. More than 14,000 people gathered to learn about the research being done on Alzheimer’s and dementia. Members of the Physical Activity and Cognition Lab were in attendance and presented findings from the Physical Activity and Alzheimer’s Disease II (PAAD2) study. Check back soon for an article with details and more pictures of our team.

The conference highlighted key developments in diagnostics, treatment, risk reduction, and the social impact of these Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Here are some highlights from the conference:

  • Lund University researchers have made strides in developing blood tests that detect Alzheimer’s early by using biomarkers to identify individuals at risk before symptoms manifest. This breakthrough could revolutionize diagnosis by making it more accessible and enabling earlier treatment.
  • A 10-year California study linked wildfire smoke and air pollution to an increased risk of dementia, with wildfire smoke being particularly hazardous. These findings emphasize the seriousness of wildfires and the need for public health strategies to alleviate these risks.
  • Researchers at Imperial College London found that Liraglutide, a diabetes drug, may slow cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s patients by reducing brain shrinkage in areas responsible for memory, learning, and decision-making. This suggests a potential new treatment pathway targeting brain metabolism.
  • Harvard researchers emphasized the role of diet in dementia prevention, finding that processed red meat increases the risk, while replacing it with nuts or legumes can lower it. Heart-healthy diets were shown to protect against cognitive decline, highlighting the importance of nutritional choices for brain health.

If you’re interested in learning more about the exciting discoveries shared at the 2024 AAIC, visit https://aaic.alz.org/highlights2024.asp.

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