Island University Receives National Recognition for its Commitment to Health Initiatives

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi has been named an Exercise is Medicine® on Campus (EIMOC) bronze award winner. The award is thanks to the commitment of the University’s Kinesiology and Recreational Sports departments in making physical activity a standard part of Island University culture. The award, sponsored by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), was announced the  Texas American College of Sports Medicine (TACSM) conference held March 1-2 in Austin, in which kinesiology faculty and students participated. The EIMOC bronze level recognition is good for two years.

“ACSM is the largest sports medicine and exercise science organization in the world and is regarded as a focal point in our field,” said Dr. Dan Newmire, assistant professor in Department of Kinesiology at A&M-Corpus Christi. “To present our research at their events and be recognized for the first time by them is quite an honor.”

EIMOC calls upon universities and colleges to promote physical activity as a vital sign of health by encouraging faculty, staff and students to work together toward improving the health and well-being of the campus community. A&M-Corpus Christi’s Recreational Sports program is boosting an active campus environment by hosting activities including group fitness classes, outdoor recreational clinics, endurance challenges and fun runs. In addition, Rec Sports offers nutritional counseling with Registered Dietician, Marcie Garza, Cooking Essential 101 class, intramural sports, and a Wellness Expo for campus, local, regional business and community members.

Newmire estimates that 300 to 500 students, faculty and staff are making physical activity a daily priority on campus and would love to see that number increase. He also notes that the Kinesiology Department hopes to increase their community outreach through education and awareness.

“We have plans to initiate programs that assist special populations in the fight against diseases such as type 2 diabetes and obesity while promoting healthy aging,” shared Newmire.