‘Unforgettable experience’ for new national Fellow Yun
The National Academy of Kinesiology recently inducted its class of 2023 Fellows, which included East Carolina University’s Dr. JK Yun as new Fellow #643 to add to ECU’s presence among the field’s top scholars.
Dr. JK Yun, second from left, is honored as one of the scholars inducted as Fellow into the National Academy of Kinesiology. (Contributed photo)
Yun, chair for the ECU Department of Kinesiology, has mentored more than 100 graduate students in his career. The Leroy T. Walker Distinguished Professor in ECU’s College of Health and Human Performance has conducted research focused on promoting physical activity and inclusion to reduce health and educational disparities, as well as training highly qualified personnel in adaptive physical activity. He has secured more than $15 million in extramural grants and contracts, most of which as principal investigator.
The induction ceremony for the 2023 class, consisting of 16 U.S. scholars and one international scholar, was held during the academy’s annual meeting Sept. 30 in Newport Beach, California.
“When I received the notification, I was filled with an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude,” Yun said. “Being recognized by the national academy is a tremendous privilege, and I am truly humbled to join this distinguished cadre of scholars. The induction ceremony was an unforgettable experience. What stood out most to me was the remarkable diversity of expertise and the dedication to advancing science to enhance human health, well-being and performance across the lifespan in various populations.”
The National Academy of Kinesiology is an honorary organization composed of Fellows who have made distinguished and sustained contributions to the field of kinesiology through scholarship and professional service. The dual purpose of the National Academy of Kinesiology is to encourage and promote the study and educational applications of the art and science of human movement and physical activity, and to honor by election to Fellow those individuals who have moved the field forward as a direct result of their scholarly and professional contributions. Fellows in the National Academy of Kinesiology reflect a “who’s who” of eminent scholars in the field.
ECU has served as a reliable training ground for this distinction, including current faculty Drs. Paul DeVita (#518) and Joe Houmard (#467) as members. Others with ECU ties include #521 Dr. Matt Mahar, #485 ECU emeritus faculty Dr. Peter Farrell, #586 Dr. Tim Gavin and 2014 international inductee Dr. David A. Rowe.
The academy noted one of Yun’s goals in research is to improve the quality of life of individuals with disabilities through evidence-based practice. HHP interim dean Dr. Stacey Altman added by lauding Yun’s leadership with graduate students and postdoctoral trainees.
“It is wonderful to see Dr. Yun’s scholarship and career receive well-deserved recognition by induction into the prestigious National Academy of Kinesiology Fellows group,” Altman said. “Dr. Yun is highly regarded not only for his own scholarly contributions, but also for his training and support of graduate students and postdoctoral trainees, which creates a workforce pipeline and a great legacy for Dr. Yun.”
Yun’s memorable experiences during his trip to California included various conversations with colleagues.
“It was inspiring to witness scholars from a wide range of kinesiology disciplines, including bench scientists and social scientists, coming together to celebrate our shared commitment,” Yun said. “For instance, I had the privilege of personally interacting with multiple leaders, including the chancellor of UNC Chapel Hill, during the event. I was deeply impressed by their unwavering dedication to seeking new knowledge and promoting justice, equity, diversity and inclusion.”