Black History Month
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Black History Month

During the month of February, ACSM takes part in celebrating Black History Month to recognize the innumerable contributions Black people have made not only to American culture as a whole, but to the fields  of sports medicine and exercise in particular. 

We are proud to feature ACSM members who have made significant contributions to both the college and to the field, as well as highlight work and research being done to address health inequities that disproportionately affect communities of color. 

ACSM understands that there is more work to be done to make our fields both diverse and inclusive. We also take this opportunity to recognize the contributions of ACSM members serving the college on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, and their on-going work in this area.

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Inspiring ACSM Leaders

NiCole R. Keith

NiCole Keith, Ph.D., FACSM

When NiCole Keith, Ph.D., FACSM, was elected the 64th president of the American College of Sports Medicine (2020-2021), she became the first person of color to hold that position in the college's history. 

  • Learn about Dr. Keith's career and her focus on improving diversity, equity and inclusion at ACSM. This Distinguished Leader interview also includes a classroom discussion guide.
  • View Dr. Keith's 2021 presidential message about Black History Month.
  • Listen to this podcast interview about Dr. Keith's goals for her ACSM presidency (2020)

Antronette Yancey headshot

Antronette (Toni) Yancey, M.D.

Antronette (Toni) Yancey, M.D., MPH, was a champion of public health and public health education throughout her successful career. She received ACSM's Citation award in 2014.

  • Learn about Dr. Yancey's career and accomplishments.
  • Watch Dr. Yancey's TED Talk, "What's Good for the Waistline is Good for the Bottom Line."
  • The Dr. Antronette (Toni) Yancey and Darlene Edgley Fellowship for Health Promotion, Physical Fitness and Community Health Education’s mission is to develop leaders of color who are committed to fighting obesity in underserved populations through community participatory research, intervention and prevention using physical activity, and other health promotion strategies. Learn more.

Meet the Member L. Jerome Brandon

L. Jerome Brandon, Ph.D., FACSM

Meet the Member Daheia Barr-Anderson

Daheia Barr-Anderson, Ph.D., MSPH, FACSM

Check back as we continue to highlight inspiring ACSM members and leaders!

 

Research 

The HERITAGE Family Study: Honoring the Past and Looking Forward

In recognition of Black History Month, ACSM researchers remind us of our ethical responsibilities when conducting and disseminating research, especially when including vulnerable populations. The following commentary was thoughtfully written after several conversations among ACSM leaders as well as concerned current and future scientists. Being accountable for all research-related activities remains at the forefront of our minds during this month and always.

Read the Special Commentary | Published in Medicine & Science in Sports and Exercise®, May 2022

Read further commentary from NiCole Keith, Ph.D., FACSM, and Larry Kenney, Ph.D., FACSM | Member-exclusive content


Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Initiatives at ACSM

Learn about ACSM's DEI programs and initiatives from the members who have been instrumental in their development and ongoing operations, and from those who have benefited from them. 

Learn about ACSM's Leadership and Diversity Training Program and how you can get involved!