BOONE—Suzanne Childress, a senior exercise science major at Appalachian State University, has received the American College of Sports Medicine’s Larry Golding Scholarship.

The Mecklenburg County resident is the daughter of Jerry and Faye Childress and a graduate of Independence High School.

The $1,000 award is given to two undergraduate students in the United States who have made significant contributions to their communities in health, fitness, and/or education.

Recipients are also recognized by their exceptional leadership roles in their schools and communities.

She received the award March 23 at the 11th Annual ACSM Health & Fitness Summit in Dallas, Texas.

Childress almost didn’t enroll at Appalachian because she was worried about the cold weather in the mountains. However, when she received a Bob Allen Scholarship, which is awarded to seniors from Mecklenburg County, her plans changed.

“When I received the scholarship, I really couldn’t turn down the opportunity to come here,” she said.

Childress also is one of three undergraduates at Appalachian who are part of UNC General Administration’s Undergraduate Research Expansion Opportunity Initiative. Her mentor is Alan Utter,  a professor in the Department of Health, Leisure and Exercise Science and director of Appalachian’s Office of Student Research.

“It’s hard to say enough about Dr. Utter and the impact he has had on me,” Childress said. “He has given me opportunities to work on research, helped me look for grants and encouraged me in my work. All of my professors at Appalachian have played a significant role in my education. To have people believe in you and care about you means a great deal. I couldn’t thank them enough.”

The opportunity to conduct research and present findings at professional conferences has convinced her to continue her academic pursuits.

She has received a graduate assistantship to attend Wake Forest University this fall to pursue a master’s degree in exercise physiology.

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