Topic: College of Applied Sciences and Technology
February 21, 2007
David Pearson, associate professor of physical education and director of Ball State's Strength Research Laboratory, was honored by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) and by the University of California, Los Angeles.
Pearson was named one of the first recipients of the NSCA Fellow distinction.
"This is a great honor for me," Pearson said. "Anytime you are recognized by your peers for your contributions to an organization, it is very humbling."
The NSCA is an international nonprofit educational association that supports and disseminates research based knowledge and its practical application to improve athletic performance and fitness. It has more than 30,000 members worldwide.
"Any accomplishments that have been attributed to me over the past 20 years have only been possible by the opportunities that the university has provided for me," Pearson said. "I believe my fellowship status will have a positive effect on recruitment of students to our undergraduate and graduate exercise science programs."
Pearson will be honored in July at the organization's national conference in Atlanta.
In addition to the NSCA distinction, Pearson also received the first Merit of Excellence Award from the speed-strength and conditioning department at UCLA.
The award recognizes an individual who has inspired and educated others. For three years, Pearson has been consulting for UCLA, specifically working with the football and men's basketball programs.
Pearson received his doctorate degree in human bioenergetics in 1987 from Ball State, and has remained a member of the faculty. His expertise lies in the areas of sports performance and strength training.
By Jennifer Strempka