BRADFORD – For the second time, the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford was awarded gold by the American College of Sports Medicine’s Exercise is Medicine project for creating a culture of wellbeing on campus.
In addition, the university received a COVID-19 Conqueror Badge based on the work of Gabrielle Barnes, a senior sports scientist from Brockway who worked with Dr. Mark Kelley, director of the Exercise Science Program.
“With so many face-to-face activities and meetings unable to be held, Gabrielle and I pondered unique ways we can continue to reach out to individuals to highlight the importance of physical activity,” said Kelley.
Barnes used the Exercise Is Medicine On Campus program Instagram page to provide resources, including weekly links to group exercise classes, to his followers. She also created a website showcasing the university’s Exercise is Motion on Campus program. The website provided training tips, including the benefits of exercise and ways to incorporate exercise into a regular routine, as well as motivational tips and words of encouragement.
“The work Gabby has started will provide a foundation for future students to continue work in the future,” said Kelley.
He will receive the award in a virtual ceremony in June.
Pitt-Bradford has received an annual award from the Exercise is Medicine on Campus program since 2017. This year it is one of only 153 universities and colleges worldwide to be honored for their efforts.
The program encourages universities and colleges to promote physical activity and faculty, staff, and students to improve the health and well-being of the campus community.
In the years leading up to the pandemic, Pitt-Bradford Sports Science students hosted an Exercise is Medicine week on campus with different daily challenges on campus and prizes for attendees. In addition, training on the importance of physical activity and health assessments was offered throughout the year.
Exercise is Motion on Campus launched its recognition program in 2014 to honor the campus for its efforts in creating a culture of wellbeing. Schools receive gold, silver or bronze status because of their activities.
In addition to Kelley and Barnes, Nicole Stark, a nurse on campus, is involved in the exercise “Medicine on campus”. Zac Stark, sports science instructor; and Katie Keller, an exercise scientist from Wrightsville.
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