NW Missouri Times

Four students from Northwest Missouri State University have been awarded student memberships to the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA). The NSCA is a non-profit organization that offers research-based health and fitness resources. Each year, its members can nominate four students for a membership that includes access to academic journals and discounted rates for conferences, clinics, and certification exams.

The nominated students are Jadyn Barnes, Hayden Froscheiser, Jay Greco, and Gail Lacox. Dr. Kyle Ryan, an assistant professor of health science and wellness at Northwest Missouri State University and a member of the NSCA Foundation’s Grant Committee, put forward their nominations.

Barnes expressed her excitement about receiving the membership: “I felt honored and like I was being rewarded for my hard work,” she said. A sophomore dietetics major from Kearney, Missouri, Barnes is passionate about learning how to optimize human body performance.

Dr. Ryan highlighted the importance of these memberships: “The benefit of the student membership is that it allows the students access to a plethora of information that would otherwise not be accessible.” To qualify for nomination, students must show a strong desire to learn and a passion for health science and wellness.

Barnes plans to use her membership resources in her career aspirations to work with professional athletes on healthy lifestyles and training techniques. She noted that this opportunity has enhanced her educational experience by allowing her independent research on topics she is passionate about.

Reflecting on her time at Northwest Missouri State University, Barnes credited the institution with significantly impacting her educational journey: “Being a student at Northwest has allowed me to have many different opportunities,” she stated. She appreciates the support from faculty who are committed to helping students succeed.