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Michael Baker awarded prestigious ESSA Fellowship

Michael Baker has been awarded a prestigious ESSA Fellowship recognising his contribution to the exercise and sport science industry, support and dedication to the association.

Associate Professor Baker, from the School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, is an exercise scientist whose research, clinical, and teaching career has focused on the integration of exercise, medicine, lifestyle and behaviour change to improve quality of life, particularly among older adults.

“I am passionate about the profession and the difference we can make in the community, and it’s an honour to be recognised by my peers in this way,” he said.

An ESSA Fellowship recognises a high level of professional accomplishment, responsibility and service to the association.

A member since 2007, Associate Professor Baker has served on a range of ESSA councils and committees and is the current chair of the accreditation council and the inaugural chair of the exercise science advisory group.

“The leadership roles that Michael has taken on within ESSA have been pivotal in the evolution of the professional standards and the accreditation system, two of the most fundamental functions of the organisation,” ESSA chief executive Anita Hobson-Powell said.

“Transitioning seamlessly from practitioner to researcher to teacher, Michael has continued to be a custodian of the exercise and sports science industry and has devoted his time over many years to the profession.”

The announcement is the latest in a series from ESSA lauding ACU’s talent in exercise science.

Performance recovery expert Shona Halson has been recognised as one of ESSA’s top female leaders in 2019 while Jack Hickey was awarded the 2018 ESSA medal for his ground-breaking work in hamstring injury.

This medal is awarded annually to the most outstanding PhD thesis in the field of exercise and sport science.

Professor Justin Kemp, National Head of the School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, said ACU’s exercise science discipline had always targeted staff with reputations as leaders in their field, who can translate their expertise into practice.

“We are proud to have staff whose work educates emerging professionals, influences current industry practice and, importantly, makes a difference to the health and performance of the individual and the greater community,” he said.

 

Congratulations to all.