News Archive 2022
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Surg Tech program featured in industry newsletter
December 19, 2022
The College of Health Sciences Surgical Technology Program was featured in the Accreditation Review Council on Education in Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (ARC/STSA) newsletter.
Program Director Janine Scott said, “Going through the initial accreditation process of a brand new program that I designed was a journey that will forever be a part of who I am. I wasn’t looking for a program director position, but when the opportunity presented itself to create and start a brand new program, I knew I couldn’t turn it down. The work and time that was put in to achieve this accreditation was well worth the end result. The students benefit greatly knowing the program is up to the highest standard and that they are now able to sit for the certification exam.”
The program is offered in collaboration with Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare to offer associates higher education degree and certificate options as part of MAAP: MLH Associate Advancement Program.
ESMS faculty nominated for teaching award
December 14, 2022
Alex Carnall, Assistant Professor of Teaching for our Exercise, Sport & Movement Science program, was nominated for the 2023 Alumni Association Distinguished Teaching Award.
Students, faculty and alumni submit nominations for this award. Up to four faculty members are honored annually for their dedication to high-quality teaching.
Fall '22 Commencement
December 11, 2022
Congratulations to our Fall 2022 graduates!
ESMS student awarded first place at research symposium
December 1, 2022
Katherine Batista, Exercise, Sport & Movement Sciences senior, placed first in the Health and Life Sciences category at the 2022 University of Memphis Works in Progress Symposium Awards (WIPS) .
Katherine’s research was about what biomechanical variables are predictors of metabolic power in well-trained male distance runners. Her study sought to understand what biomechanical variables were correlated with metabolic power and running economy in high caliber runners.
The WIPS provide undergraduates with an opportunity to share their research with peers as well as professors. Undergraduates who have conducted original research, scholarly, or creative projects under the guidance of a faculty mentor are invited to submit an application to WIPS. This symposium also welcomes presentations by students who are just beginning projects, and affords students the opportunity to present the background, rationale, plans and preliminary results from a project that is ongoing, rather than complete.
Student Spotlight
November 28, 2022
Mya Jones
Senior, Health Sciences
Mya Jones is a forward/midfielder for the Memphis Tigers Women’s Soccer team. The team recently won the AAC conference, with Mya assisting in the winning goal, making history in the NCAA tournament. She was also named for this year’s AAC All-Conference First Team.
“I really like how much the professors in the College of Health Sciences want to help you succeed and guide you into your desired career path," said Jones. Upon graduating in the spring, she hopes to play professional soccer in America or Europe and later attend medical school.
PETE/Sport Coaching students featured in local news
November 21, 2022
Lanetta Williams, Sport Coaching senior, and her twin sister Lanyce Williams, Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) senior, were featured on ABC24 to talk about their journeys as Memphis Tigers Women’s Basketball players.
"It was always a package deal," Lanetta said.
"If it ain't broke, don't fix it," Lanyce added. "So, we thought why not stay together? It's the main thing we were striving for. The main thing was we sign somewhere, we got the school we both wanted. Then the next step was to get on the floor together."
The twin tandem would only share a court three times, as Lanyce battled persistent knee injuries and a heart condition. But, the twins continue to share the court as Lanyce transitioned to undergraduate assistant coach.
Faculty and staff reach career milestones
November 15, 2022
Several of our faculty and staff were recognized at the Career Milestone Awards for their years of service to the University of Memphis.
Congratulations!
Terra Smith, 25 years
Carol Irwin, 15 years
Todd Layne, 10 years
Max Paquette, 10 years
Micheal J. Clinton, Jr., 5 years
Angie Johnson, 5 years
Carol Mahalitc, 5 years
Tracy Shipp, 5 years
Faculty Spotlight
November 13, 2022
Dr. Douglas Powell, associate professor for Exercise, Sport & Movement Sciences, recently shared three biomechanics presentations at Angelo State University in San Angelo, Texas. The presentations identified the relationship of biomechanics and exercise physiology at the research level and career options in biomechanics.
Powell said, “The presentations went very well. We were able to effectively present our research, share the variety of careers in which biomechanics plays a significant role and demonstrate low-cost research tools to the primarily undergraduate university of Angelo State University.
Graduate Student Spotlight
November 10, 2022
Camelta Barnes, Environmental Nutrition graduate student, is recognized for the Student Spotlight of Exceptional College of Health Sciences students. Camelta earned her Bachelor of Science in Food and Nutrition from Fontboone University in St. Louis two decades ago. She started our Environmental Nutrition program in spring of 2022.
She is a senior public health nutritionist, and head of the Department of Nutrition unit in the Ministry of Health & Wellness in Nassau, Bahamas. Her responsibilities are dietary interventions, program planning and policy development.
Camelta said, “Thus far, I have enjoyed the Environmental Nutrition program immensely. As an international student, I was pleased to find that some of the courses included a little of the global aspect. I truly enjoyed learning about the different cultural values (Food and Culture course) and how they can be applied to my work in nutrition, but also in my personal life. All of the courses have been great thus far, challenging but great.”
She hopes to gain a position, or even contract work, in food systems and learn their connection to diet and the environment. Camelta would also like to join academia and teach nutrition-sensitive courses to agriculture or environmental students.
Dietary supplement research center facilitates important research under CHS dean
November 7, 2022
Dietary supplements are big business, with the global market valued at $152 billion in 2021, and an expected compound annual growth rate of 8.9% from 2022 to 2030. The Council for Responsible Nutrition noted recently that a staggering 80% of Americans are now using dietary supplements. Despite what some well-meaning health professionals might say, for many products, there are efficacy data to support the claims being made.
Like pharmaceutical companies, supplement companies typically work directly with Contract Research Organizations (CROs) to have their products evaluated. After spending close to 15 years researching dietary supplements, Dr. Richard Bloomer believed that he and his team could provide a service that rivaled that of most CROs, and in the process allow for graduate and undergraduate student training in this novel area of research.
In response, he founded the Center for Nutraceutical and Dietary Supplement Research within the College of Health Sciences.
ESMS alumna featured in Canadian news
November 1, 2022
Zoey Kearns, Exercise, Sport & Movement Sciences (ESMS) alumna, had her thesis project featured in the Globe and Mail, one of Canada’s largest news platforms.
Kearns’ thesis addressed how ankles are the new key joint runners need to focus on for maximum performance. She conducted a ten-week research analysis, consisting of three different strength-training approached to improve the ankle strength of a runner.
Graduate student shares research at national conference
October 24, 2022
Clinical Nutrition graduate student, Ashlyn Hall, shared her Food Fusion pilot program research project at the Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo (FNCE) in Orlando, Fla. By sharing nutritional knowledge alongside hands-on cooking through this after-school program, she demonstrates how we can impact the habits of middle school students. The habits that are formed in middle school years can impact a lifetime of healthy decisions.
Clinical assistant professor speaks at Health Care Summit
October 23, 2022
College of Health Sciences Clinical Assistant Professor, Dr. Shemeka Hamlin-Palmer, was selected to speak at the 2022 Value-Based Health Care Summit in Dallas, Texas.
Palmer said, “I will discuss the healthcare delivery models providers, including hospitals and physicians, are paid based on patient's health outcomes. I will also discuss the advantages of value-based healthcare for patients and providers. I hope to expand knowledge, improve skills and introduce new theories that will be beneficial in attendees' professional development.”
The Business Research Intelligence Network (BRIN) hosts the event to educate and inform attendees on the innovative opportunities in health care.
Palmer will be addressing barriers to patient care, giving insight into the various contracts including shared risk, bundled payments and global risk.
Nutrition faculty receive grant for study of link between obesity, cancer
October 6, 2022
Drs. Marie van der Merwe and Brandt Pence are co-investigators on a University of Tennessee Health Science Center-led $5.2M grant for a study that will fill critical gaps in knowledge around obesity-mediated cancer risk. The UofM group will receive just over $1 million in grant funds to conduct research for the study.
Obesity has been linked to an increased risk of and a worse prognosis for several types of cancer. A number of related factors contribute to obesity’s pro-tumor effects, including suppression of the immune system (immunosuppression). The underlying mechanics that control how and to what extent obesity-mediated immunosuppression increases cancer risk remains an untapped niche in cancer research.
The team hypothesizes that obesity changes the gut microbiome, which can impact the immune system’s ability to keep watch on the start of cancer, potentially through microbially-derived metabolites. In this project, the team will study patients undergoing bariatric surgery to follow metabolic and immune changes with weight loss over time.
PETE Student Spotlight
October 5, 2022
Rosalba (Rose) Perez-Levya, Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) senior, is recognized for the Student Spotlight of Exceptional University of Memphis College of Health Sciences students.
Rose joined the PETE program her junior year and instantly fell in love. She likes that it allows you the ability to break boundaries, think creatively and explore new activities.
“Rose is a tremendous student who goes above and beyond what is expected of her. She is a highly organized, personable and courteous student who is always willing to help the PETE faculty and her fellow students. The UofM community is better when Rose is around!" said Becky Bocz, PETE Assistant Professor of Teaching.
Rose is the president of the PETE Majors Club and upon graduating this spring, she will be continue her education in the PETE graduate program at the UofM.
ESMS associate professor recognized for advising excellence
September 30, 2022
Exercise, Sport and Movement Sciences (ESMS) associate professor, Dr. Douglas Powell, was awarded the 2022 Excellence in Academic Advising Award for Graduate Student Advisor at the University of Memphis.
Dr. Powell has advised graduate students at the UofM since 2016. Through his mentorship and guidance, these students have completed graduate degrees and moved on to the next stage of their career or education. He understands the importance of education and uses his platform as an advisor and professor to reach out to undergraduate students about their career goals, and how furthering their education through a graduate program could advance their career aspirations.
An alumni said, "Dr. Powell’s door is always open to students, literally and metaphorically. He is always present and welcoming to all students that may need assistance or support in their academic journey. Dr. Powell is a fantastic graduate student advisor and his service to me and my fellow graduate students should be commended and awarded."
The UofM Division of Student Academic Success awards six different categories of advisors to show appreciation and celebrate their academic efforts on campus. Their efforts are responsible for last year’s record-breaking increase in retention, persistence and graduation rates.
Surgical Technology program receives accreditation
September 19, 2022
The College of Health Sciences Surgical Technology program is now accredited through the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
The program coordinated by Janine Scott, in partnership with Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare (MLH), offers a 15-month Surgical Technology program. This is a part of the University of Memphis MLH Associate Advancement Program (MAAP). The curriculum is offered through a combination of online and in-lab/in-class learning, broken into five terms of three months each. During the initial two terms (months one-six), you complete online coursework in Anatomy & Physiology, Medical Terminology, Microbiology, Pharmacology and related topics.
“This was a long process and took nearly two years to accomplish due to the timeline of how the program is designed and when the accrediting boards meet each year. We essentially went through two different accrediting boards before getting the accreditation.” said Scott.
In Tennessee, it is required to graduate from an accredited program for this profession in order to get hired on as a surgical technologist. You also cannot sit for the national certification exam without graduating from an accredited program.
Receiving this accreditation will allow students in this program to advance after completing the curriculum.
PETE faculty recognized as MVPs (Most Valuable Professor)
September 9, 2022
Physical Education Teacher Education Assistant Professor of Teaching Becky Bocz and Associate Professor Toddy Layne received Memphis Tigers Athletics' Most Valuable Professor award, nominated by two Women’s Soccer players.
In response to player Bryana Buttar's selection, Bocz said, "I feel deeply honored to receive this recognition from my student. As a college professor you are never sure how you may impact your students, but I do my best to build relationships and connect with them. I know having an understanding of the challenges they are facing, their busy schedules, family life, as well as other things that may be occurring outside of college is essential for me to be the best teacher for them."
Layne, who was selected by Kimberley Smitt, said “It was a great honor to be recognized by a student.”
Associate professor awarded grant for aging study
August 31, 2022
College of Health Sciences (CHS) Associate Professor Dr. Brandt Pence and collaborators received $414,136 from the National Institute on Aging of the National Institute of Health for their project, “Mitochondrial Determinants of Monocyte Dysfunction in Aging.” Dr. Pence is Principal Investigator with Co-Investigators Yufeng Zhang (UofM CHS), Aaryani Sajja (UofM Biomedical Engineering) and Amandeep Bajwa (UTHSC Surgery).
The study is aimed at determining why aging causes declines in immune function. They are looking at the mitochondria, which are functionally reduced in aging, and how that might affect inflammation responses. They are also testing a mitochondrial transplant therapy to see if they can improve mitochondrial and immune function in immune cells from older adults.
2021-22 College of Health Sciences MVP
August 19, 2022
Tracy Shipp, Assistant Director of Marketing & Communications, is the recipient of the College of Health Sciences MVP Award for 2021-22. The MVP award is provided to the faculty or staff member who, during the past academic year, excelled in one or more areas of work, including but not limited to research, instruction and/or service. Shipp manages all aspects of marketing and communications for the College of Health Sciences and Campus Recreation, and always performs at the highest level.
CHS assistant professor awarded grant for character education spectrum project
August 18, 2022
Physical Education Teacher Education Assistant Professor, Dr. Jamie Brunsdon, was awarded $5,000 from the Spectrum Institute for Teaching and Learning for his project: “Flourishing Through The Spectrum: Toward an Affective Spectrum Model?”
This project focuses on creating and field testing a new pedagogical model oriented toward teaching character education. Dr. Brunsdon will test the model with three K-12 classes to test the feasibility of the modelas well as the barriers and facilitators associated with implementing the model with youth in modern schools.
ESMS associate professor leads world-ranking track & field event as meet director
August 11, 2022
Photo credit: Billy Cvecko; Pole vault photo: Puma Running
Exercise, Sport & Movement Sciences Associate Professor Dr. Max Paquette and his team work continuously to help empower Memphis youth to pursue healthy and active lifestyles through track & field.
Dr. Paquette is the meet director for the annual Ed Murphey Classic held last month at the University of Memphis Billy J. Murphy Track and Soccer Complex. This track and field event hosted hundreds of professional, kids and community athletes with 58 Olympians.
This year's event included 55+ Olympians from 26 different countries, three different track and field sessions, social events, live music, food vendors, Stax Music Academy vocalists, Beale Street Flippers, a kids Q&A and Meet the Pros events. It produced dozens of personal bests, two world records, five TN-Soil records, 13 meet records and a lifetime of memories for local kids.
One of the events was a street pole vault on Beale Street in downtown Memphis. Professional pole vaulters ran down a portable runway and vaulted themselves up to 19 feet off of Beale!
The meet currently ranks 20th in the world and 4th in the U.S., above Penn Relays, Drake Relays, Texas Relays, New York Grand Prix and other outstanding and historic meets.
Dietetics students visit Florence, Italy for Study Abroad program
August 5, 2022
The College of Health Sciences Dietetics program, led by Mary Catherine Schallert, studied abroad in Florence, Italy this summer. The students had the opportunity to take one of the several courses offered in nutrition, health and lifestyle wellness at Florence University of the Arts.
“My overall study abroad experience provided me with the opportunity to gain more knowledge for my major. Also, provided me the opportunity to experience another culture in real time,” said Dietetics student Iyalaje Ogunwale.
Healthcare Leadership/MAAP graduate featured on local news
July 30, 2022
“Earning that bachelor's degree, it changed the trajectory of my life. The doors have opened. My journey is just beginning here."
Tanya Myers, one of the first graduates of the Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare Associate Advancement Program (MAAP), spoke with ABC24 about earning her bachelor's degree in Healthcare Leadership. The MAAP Program in Partnership with UofM is designed to help associates at MLH further their career goals.
Memphis Youth Athletics visits CHS
July 15, 2022
Photo credit: Memphis Youth Athletics
Memphis Youth Athletics visited the College of Health Sciences and Memphis Tigers Athletics during their summer program to learn about human movement. During their visit, the youth athletes were able to practice their track and field skills, talk with some our Tiger Football players and tour the campus. They even had the opportunity to run through the fountain!
Memphis Youth Athletics helps kids ages five to eighteen years in the West TN area see and grow their potential in the sport of track and field, as well as learn how to live a healthy lifestyle.
ESMS students win awards at national conference
July 12, 2022
Exercise, Sport and Movement Sciences (ESMS) students recently attended the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Annual Meeting and World Congresses in San Diego. The conference showcases the latest on exercise science and sports medicine.
Zoey Kearns won the Student Travel Award and a Student Research Award for her musculoskeletal analysis presentation. Zoey earned her master's degree in ESMS and is pursuing a PhD at the University of Maryland starting this fall.
PhD students Hailey Fong and Alexis Nelson won a Interest Group Award for their biomechanics research presentation.
During the annual meeting, the students were able to network, seek career advice and attend educational sessions to further their knowledge and prepare themselves for their next step in their exercise science and sports medicine careers.
College hosted Camp CHEF
June 29, 2022
This month, the College of Health Sciences hosted Camp CHEF, fun and healthy week-long camps for 3rd through 8th graders.
We explored the TIGUrS Garden, learning how fresh produce cultivates and the steps needed to maintain healthy plants. We also prepared nutritious snacks and lunchtime meals in the new R. Brad Martin Student Wellness Center Tiger Food Lab while teaching culinary skills like chopping, measuring, sautéing and baking. Then we played games centered around health and wellness and enjoyed some pool time.
We look forward to doing it again next summer!
Nutrition Science associate professor featured in UofM Magazine
June 20, 2022
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Dr. Marie van der Merwe is featured in the spring edition of the UofM Magazine. Dr. van der Merwe teaches classes on micronutrient metabolism and the role of exercise and nutrition on immunology. Her research laboratory focuses on the manipulation of the immune system using nutrients such as fatty acids and nutraceuticals with the long-term goal of regulating diseases.
Drowning prevention grant awarded to College
June 16, 2022
The College of Health Sciences, led by the efforts of instructor/coordinator Debra Wyatt, was awarded $10,000 from BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Community Trust for the fourth year in a row. The first year, the award was used to develop a program offering free CPR to the community. The second year, we continued with free CPR courses and added free lifeguard training. Last year, we shifted our focus back to CPR and partnered with Shelby County Schools (SCS) to offer free courses for SCS faculty, staff and students. This year we are continuing to offer free CPR training to our community and SCS ROTC groups. We will also offer free classes at churches and community centers for those who are not able to travel to the University.
ESMS associate professor receives national association appointment
May 13, 2022
Exercise, Sport & Movement Sciences associate professor Dr. Douglas Powell was appointed by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Board of Trustees to serve on the ACSM Research Review Committee through May 2025.
Dr. Powell's research interests pertain to the interaction of anatomical structure, neurophysiological function and movement biomechanics. He has interest in the biomechanical and neurophysiological underpinnings of stiffness and rigidity in sports movements and Parkinson's disease, respectively. He also has interest in the efficacy of therapeutic exercise interventions on neuromuscular function in patients and tactical athletes.
Dr. Powell actively collaborates with researchers from institutions around the world including Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia Tech University, Deutsche Sporthocschule Koln and the Saint Louis Cardinals. He is a member of the American College of Sports Medicine, American Society of Biomechanics, American Heart Association and National Strength & Conditioning Association. He has consulted with high school, collegiate and professional athletes as well as tactical athletes under Special Operations Command to enhance performance, reduce injury risk and accelerate rehabilitation. He is also the program coordinator for the Applied Biomechanics doctoral program set to launch in this fall.
2022 Spring Commencement
May 7, 2022
Congratulations to all 225 students from our Spring 2022 graduating class!
College of Health Sciences Award Winners
May 3, 2022
Student Leadership & Involvement in conjunction with Student Academic Success, the Commencement Office and the Office of the President hosted the President's Leadership Awards and Honors Assembly. This reception honored the University of Memphis' finest and brightest student academic achievements, student leaders and organizations for their dedication to the University.
Carson's Circle Inductee
Brianna James
College of Health Sciences Awards
- Katika Davis - Eleanor Mae Ferguson Award
- Greer Bullough - Outstanding Dietetic Student Award
- John Taggart - Ralph Hatley Award
- Sky Koelsch - Outstanding Healthcare Leadership Award
- Hilary DeLuco - Outstanding Health Promotion Student
- Holley Luckey - Outstanding Health Promotion Student
- Treysen Neal - Outstanding Senior in Exercise, Sport & Movement Sciences Award
- Noah Wallace - Outstanding Senior in Exercise, Sport & Movement Sciences Award
- Kalynda Barksdale - Outstanding Senior in Health Sciences
- Elijah Harden - Outstanding Senior in Health Sciences
- Scottlyn Williams - Outstanding Senior in Health Sciences
- Alexis Nelson - The Melvin A. Humphreys Prize for Student Research
- Zoey Kearns - Biomechanics Achievement Award
- Kierstin Davis - Exercise Physiology Achievement Award
PLA Awards
- Patrick “KP” Parnell - UofM 20 Under 30
- Morgan Linsy - Student Government Association Outstanding Associate Justice Award
- Gaybrielle Gardner - Student Activities Council Committee Member of the Year
- Jeremiah Macklin - Multicultural Affairs Outstanding Service Award
Perfect Academic Record-4.0 Grade Point Average
- Kaylee Davidson
- Maya Gonzalez
- Brittney Hughes
- Colleen Orbegoso
Healthcare Leadership professor elected UofM Faculty Senate president
May 1, 2022
Clinical associate professor and Healthcare Leadership unit coordinator, Dr. Pat Travis, was elected University Faculty Senate president.
The Faculty Senate consists of 44 senators representing departments, independent units and areas across the University. It serves as a forum for the formulation of faculty opinion, a university-wide voice for faculty views and the primary vehicle for faculty participation in University governance.
PETE alumnus featured in Fortune news article: "Meet the middle school set on uniting students beyond partisan lines"
April 14, 2022
From Fortune:
Physical education instructor Keith Loupe came to teaching after a 20-year career in the Marines, where he saw the impact a school can have on a community. Loupe helped rebuild a school in Indonesia as part of a humanitarian mission, and that experience stuck with him: After retiring from military service, he went back to school to become a teacher. He was attracted to University Middle partly because of its commitment to diversity and its approach to teaching.
Loupe sees sports as the perfect arena for engaging in and working through differences of opinion, since disagreements arise naturally in the course of playing most games. With that in mind, he uses the first few weeks of the school year to encourage vulnerability and help kids build trust by teaching them unfamiliar games from other cultures and ending each class with a set of questions that prompt kids to reflect on how comfortable they felt, how supportive they were of others, and if they felt like their point of view was respected.
For the rest of the year, physical education is broken into a series of units, each focusing on a particular sport. At the beginning of each unit students are assigned to a team, and Loupe takes into account many identity markers—including cultural background, athleticism, gregariousness, and competitiveness—to ensure that teams are diverse. Students also take on a specific role within that team—such as statistician, trainer, captain, or manager—that gives them the opportunity to take ownership over the team’s functioning and show off their strengths. Loupe’s ultimate goal is to create a mini community within each team. He hopes that this foundation of trust will empower students to advocate for themselves while respecting other points of view.
“We need to be deliberate about advocacy,” Loupe said. “It’s not just about saying that you need to stand up for yourself. Because that’s easy to say, but how do you really do that? We address listening with purpose, acknowledging what the other person is saying, and then expressing your point of view. Because as adults, sometimes we say, ‘This is what I think, and I don’t care what you think.’”
Loupe also intentionally embeds discussion and character education into his class. Before starting the day’s physical activity, students gather in a classroom, where Loupe has prepared a prompt or scenario that relates to a theme such as compassion or justice. He then has students discuss the prompt—first with a partner on the half-mile walk between the school building and gym facility and then the whole group during a break in the middle of class.
Students take these conversations in many different directions. For example, in a recent conversation about tolerance, students talked about being tolerant of people with different opinions, tolerance when others lose their temper, and cultural tolerance. Loupe finds that creating the conditions for these conversations takes intentionality and open-mindedness on the part of teachers.
“The challenge is bringing kids together and creating those experiences that they’re going to appreciate,” Loupe said. “Where they’re going to be in a position where they have to listen to somebody else. Not only that, but we as teachers have our own beliefs, so we have to be malleable—to be able to listen to students and appreciate their point of view."
Nutrition scientists present "Circadian Biology and Intermittent Fasting"
April 6, 2022
Drs. Marie van der Merwe and Chida Ramanathan finished off this season's Healthy Conversations series with the presentation, "Circadian Biology and Intermittent Fasting."
The circadian clock regulates daily physiological and behavioral changes over 24 hours. It controls many events from the sleep/wake cycle to cellular metabolism. Disruption of the internal clock with the external world results in negative health consequences, including obesity, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
Intermittent fasting has become very popular as a weight and health management tool. It is a dietary pattern that cycles between eating and fasting. The time-restricted feeding/eating patterns is a form of intermittent fasting where nutrient intake and fasting are aligned with circadian cycles. The nutrition scientists discussed how this dietary pattern has been shown to cause reorganization of the clock-regulated metabolic processes, thereby reducing the risk of metabolic dysfunction.
Health Sci Business Officer nominated as TIAA Excellence Award winner
March 21, 2022
A special congratulations to Hilary DeLuco, Business Officer III for the College of Health Sciences and Campus Recreation, who was nominated for a University of Memphis TIAA Excellence Award.
The TIAA Excellence Awards recognizes employees throughout all University Divisions for a variety of exceptional efforts and contributions to the UofM. Primarily, this award honors employees who display one or more of the following:
- Consistently performs job responsibilities at a level above and beyond normal expectations.
- Exhibits an exceptional ability to foster collaboration, communication, and cooperation among colleagues and university constituents.
- Exhibits a high degree of personal ethics and integrity.
- Has clearly earned the respect of colleagues.
- Exceptional contributions to their department’s level of service satisfaction.
- Significant contributions to the efficiency of an operation or unit.
- Significant contribution to student success, directly or indirectly.
Graduate Student Spotlight
March 20, 2022
Garrett Hess, Exercise, Sport & Movement Sciences graduate assistant, competed at the USA Weightlifting University National Championships in Columbus, Ohio. Garrett competed in the 81kg weight class and finished with a gold medal in the Snatch event and bronze medal in both the Clean & Jerk and Total events. He finished ranked as the 9th best male lifter among all weight classes. Additionally, with this finish he was honored as one of 16 All-American Male athletes (21 females, 37 in total). These 37 All-American honorees came from a total of only 23 universities or colleges including the University of Memphis.
Dietetics gain experience with nutrition demonstration
March 18, 2022
Today, Dietetics students gained hands-on experience when they provided a cooking/nutrition demo and prepared a healthy lunch for the employers attending our Career Mix & Mingle event.
Food prepared: stuffed acorn squash (with turkey, kale, tomato), a spring spinach & strawberry salad, and poached pears with yogurt & homemade granola for dessert.
Pictured:
- Shelton Spivey, Wellness Center GA
- William Fite, Dietetics senior
- Brandy Lester, Dietetics senior
Clinical Nutrition alumna awarded Dietetic Student Intern of the Year
March 15, 2022
Erin Lancaster, Clinical Nutrition alumna, was awarded 2021 Dietetic Student Intern of the Year by Memphis Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (MAND). She graduated in December 2021 and currently works at a children's hospital in Nashville.
Nominees must be a member of MAND, enrolled in an ACEND-accredited dietetics education program, demonstrate academic achievement as documented by letters from program faculty or preceptors, and demonstrate leadership and professional potential.
"My advice to current nutrition students would be to hang in there and enjoy the experience as much as you can because it flies by!" said Lancaster.
Instructor's abstract/poster accepted for national meeting
March 11, 2022
Cheri Kilmurray has been working on a secondary analysis of the NIH funded Lifestyle Enhancement Program (LEAP) smoking cessation randomized controlled trial data, collected in 2004-2007. Her focus is on “weight concern” as a barrier to cessation and cause for relapse. Her abstract was accepted as a poster presentation at the annual meeting of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco, March 15-18 2022.
Outcomes of her analysis were 1) use of smoking to control weight (“control”; continuous score) and 2) anticipating relapse if weight gain occurred (“relapse”; yes vs. no) using validated instruments. Exposures were self-reported physical activity and physical activity perceptions (self-efficacy, enjoyment of organized and unorganized PA, personal and environmental barriers). Covariates were treatment group and known determinants of post-cessation weight concerns including socio-demographics, smoking behavior, diet, and BMI. Both control and relapse were significantly (p<0.05) associated with being female, white, and less motivated to quit. Higher control scores also were associated with engaging in less moderate intensity physical activity and higher BMI. A significant interaction indicated that men with higher BMI anticipated relapsing if weight gain occurred, but no such association was found for women. No other PA behaviors or perceptions were associated with weight concerns.
Happy National RDN Day!
March 9, 2022
Today is National Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day and we'd like to recognize the Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDN) in the College of Health Sciences!
- Tracy Bruen, DCN, RDN, LDN
- Terra Smith, PhD, RDN
- Robin Roach, MPH, EdD, RDN
- Mary Catherine Schallert, MS, RDN, LDN, FAND
- Sara Foley, MS, RDN, LDN, FAND
- Angie Wallick, MS, RDN, LDN, CEDRD-S
- Katie Cook, MS, RDN, LDN
Nutrition alumnus featured on local news
March 3, 2022
Martin Del Real Navarro, Clinical Nutrition alumnus and registered dietitian with Regional One Health, was featured on WREG News Channel 3 to give tips on how to maintain a heart healthy diet as diabetes and heart disease are some of the biggest health problems facing families across the mid-south.
Research Assistant Professor nominated 2022 Mid-South Woman of Impact
February 27, 2022
Congratulations to Dr. Fedoria Rugless for being nominated as a 2022 Mid-South Woman of Impact.
"I’m excited to be nominated for Go Red for Women’s Woman of Impact campaign. As co-chair of the local Health Equity Committee of American Heart Association, I have served on the front lines, trying to improve the health and well-being of our people," said Rugless. "This campaign is personally important to me, because I’ve seen the devastating effects of heart disease on the people we love. Within African-American women, over 49% have heart disease, yet only 36% know that heart disease is their greatest health risk, and only 20% believe that they are personally at risk. I have a strong love for my people, and want to use this role to help increase awareness and knowledge, reduce healthcare disparities within underserved populations, and improve access for all to obtain holistic optimal health and wellness."
Dr. Fedoria Rugless was a research assistant professor for the College of Health Sciences and served as the director of research for Church Health.
Healthy Eating Institute awarded grant for youth food literacy program
February 24, 2022
Led by the efforts of Associate Professor Marie van der Merwe, the Healthy Eating Institute was awarded a grant from the University of Memphis Campus Community Fund to support a pilot program as part of the development of an after-school youth food literacy program.
The program is developed as a collaboration between College of Health Sciences (nutrition) and Loewenberg School of Nursing to improve food literacy through food knowledge and practical cooking skills. As an experiential learning component for their degree, nutrition and nursing students will be co-teaching classes for children ages 12-14 interested in healthy eating habits. The classes will be held in the Tiger Food Lab teaching kitchen within the new R. Brad Martin Student Wellness Center. A major goal of the program is to give all children, irrespective of ability to pay, the opportunity to participate through external funding mechanisms.
CHS instructor awarded grant for LGBTQ+ mental health project
February 21, 2022
College of Health Sciences instructor Martavius Hampton and collaborators received $2,425 from the Campus Community Fund for their project, "Perceptions of Mental Health in the LGBTQ+ Community." The project aims to conduct a needs assessment focused on perceived gaps in mental health services available to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and plus (LGBTQ+) students at the University of Memphis. They aim to delineate current perceptions and knowledge of mental health services among UoM students, to better understand and serve the needs of this population.
Collaboration is essential to effectively address the mental health needs of the LGBTQ+ community at the UofM. Thus, merging multiple interdisciplinary fields such as psychology, LGBTQ+ service agencies, public health and crime advocacy agencies is paramount to increasing this community's health outcomes.
The project represents collaboration between Martavius Hampton, Phillis Lewis and Dr. Gayle Beck. Phillis Lewis is the executive director of Love Doesn’t Hurt, a non-profit organization that provides services to LGBTQ+ victims of crime while promoting cultural humility. Dr. Gayle Beck is an internationally known mental health expert and licensed clinical psychologist and the holder of the Moss Chair of Excellence in Psychology at the University of Memphis.
ESMS associate professor gives talk on running shoe performance
February 17, 2022
Dr. Max Paquette, associate professor for Exercise, Sport & Movement Sciences, discussed shoe design and performance with physics students at Crosstown High School as part of a shoe design project led by physics teacher Gabe Ares.
Faculty awarded grant for nutrition program
February 11, 2022
Principal Investigator, Dr. Shelly Stockton and collaborators were awarded a grant from USANA Health Sciences for their study entitled, "Impact of the Active Nutrition Program." The program includes a combination of meal replacement shakes and bars, dietary fiber powders, encapsulated dietary supplements, as well as whole food options. The purpose of the proposed study is to evaluate the Active Nutrition weight loss program on body weight and related variables in a sample of overweight and obese men and women.
ESMS associate professor awarded grant for running study
February 7, 2022
Exercise, Sport & Movement Sciences Associate Professor Dr. Max Paquette was awarded $70,679.70 from Asahi Kasei America Inc. to assess the influence of newly developed running performance shorts on running economy (i.e., “fuel efficiency”) and to understand the biomechanical factors (e.g., hip and pelvic motions) that may explain why the shorts improve economy in trained distance runners. High caliber distance runners from all over the U.S. will be coming to the University of Memphis to take part in this study.