Associate Professor of Exercise Science Dr. Kyle Sunderland was named recipient of the Ohio Valley Conference’s Outstanding Faculty Commitment to Student Success Award.

The awards were established in 2023 by the Provosts from each OVC member institution to recognize outstanding faculty at each OVC member institution. Each OVC member institution had the opportunity to nominate a faculty member with the rank of associate or full-time professor who has been employed at the institution for at least five years.

The criteria included impacts of students, contributions made to the department, university and curriculum development, consistent professional development as well as community involvement and institutional service.

“Dr. Sunderland's impact on students both in and out of the classroom has been remarkable. His mentorship record demonstrates an extraordinary commitment to fostering student research and academic growth,” Associate Provost Dr. Robyne Elder shared. “He has personally mentored numerous undergraduate students in sophisticated research projects since joining Lindenwood, with many of these projects resulting in presentations at national conferences.”

Sunderland's commitment to his field is evident through his research portfolio, which includes many peer-reviewed publications involving student co-authors, and conference presentations. This spring, several of Sunderland’s research students presented original work at a regional conference. He has also secured research funding to expand community partnerships, including one of Lindenwood’s PRIDE Fund grants. The funds from the grant have allowed Sunderland to involve additional undergraduate students in research, providing practical experience that students will use in their future careers.