Two Michigan State University kinesiology professors and an alumna have been named to the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition Science Board.
The PCSFN Science Board is comprised of 14 scholars from academic and medical institutions across the U.S. who are committed to elevating, expanding and disseminating scientific research related to youth sports.
Members of the 2020-21 board include Department of Kinesiology Chairperson Alan L. Smith, Professor Karin A. Pfieffer and Ph.D. ’12 alumna Meredith A. Whitley of Adelphi University.
“MSU is strongly represented because of its long-time leadership on issues pertaining to health and safety of youth sport participants, such as through our Institute for the Study of Youth Sports,” said Smith.
His work examines the link of sport and physical activity involvement with youth’s psychological and social functioning.
“This board will offer expert guidance as the nation seeks to improve access to high-quality youth sport experiences,” Smith continued. “This is essential to promotion of active living across the lifespan, and in turn, the health and well-being of our citizens.”
Also on the board is Travis E. Dorsch from Utah State University, one of Smith’s former doctoral advisees and an expert on sport parenting.
The PCSFN Science Board is a subcommittee of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition. The Science Board will provide the larger council with evidence-based scientific information to help increase knowledge, commitment to and opportunity in youth sports across the nation.
Specialties of the board members include benefits of sport participation, coaching, nutrition and more.
Pfeiffer, a notable exercise physiologist who studies physical activity in youth, served on the original PCSFN Science Board when it was created in 2012. The 2020-2021 board is a re-instatement to the cause.
Related links
- Whitley was profiled in the New Educator (“Shooting for Success,” 2011)
- Smith has many contributions to the field, including co-editing a widely used sport and exercise psychology resource. Learn about “Advances in Sport and Exercise Psychology” (Human Kinetics, 2019)