Annual Women in Science seminar hosts kinesiology legend

Friday, Apr 05, 2024 • Rachel Biggs : Contact

Above left to right: Florence Haseltine, Elizabeth Merwin, Paul Fadel, Beverly Ulrich, Priscila Tamplain

 

Capping off Women’s History Month, The University of Texas at Arlington’s College of Nursing and Health Innovation hosted its 3rd Annual Florence Haseltine Women in Science (WIS) Seminar in March.

“The WIS seminar is one way to highlight the efforts and trajectories of women in the fields of study associated with kinesiology and health professions,” said event co-organizer and CONHI Associate Professor Priscila Tamplain, Ph.D.

This year’s seminar speaker was Beverly Ulrich, Ph.D., dean emerita, School of Kinesiology at the University of Michigan. Ulrich’s incredible career made her an ideal candidate to headline the event. 

“Dr. Ulrich is a giant in the field of motor development. She is also a legend in kinesiology, as she built the number #1 school of kinesiology in the country,” said Tamplain. “Dr. Ulrich’s research directly affects protocols used in rehabilitation settings. Her talk enlightened students on how they can use research for application in their professions, such as physical therapy.”

Dr. Ulrich’s work and presentation was also meant to inspire faculty.

“It is important to recognize the many successes of women in science, particularly for our junior faculty and trainees,” said Paul Fadel, Ph.D., professor of kinesiology, associate dean for research and director of clinical translational science.

In her closing remarks, Ulrich highlighted the importance of the unexpected in her career.  

“I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had, for all these twists and turns and changes of direction I’ve had over my career because I think each one helped me do a better job in the next role,” said Ulrich.

The seminar is named in honor of lauded researcher Florence Haseltine, Ph.D. She is the Jenkins Garrett Professor and Presidential Distinguished Professor in the College of Nursing and Health Innovation and serves as the medical director for the North Texas Genome Center.