New Master of Science in Exercise Science Degree to Launch in Fall 2025
St. Thomas Aquinas College invites the community to the “Exercise Science & Health Innovation: Transforming Modern Wellness” panel discussion on Wednesday, February 5, at 5:00 PM in its Lougheed Library Reading Room. This free event is open to the public and will feature leading experts sharing insights on cutting-edge advancements in exercise science and health innovation.
Moderated by St. Thomas Aquinas College student Tyler Robinson, a senior Exercise Science major and aspiring physical therapist, the panel discussion will cover topics such as exercise and longevity, the role of strength training in health, and the impact of physical activity on chronic disease prevention and rehabilitation.
“We are thrilled to host this panel, led by one of our exceptional students who embodies the values of experiential learning and care for our community,” said Ken Daly, St. Thomas Aquinas College President. “This special event underscores our commitment to fostering innovation and educating and empowering future leaders in health and wellness.”
Panelists include:
- Dr. Gabriel Martinez, Assistant Professor of Exercise Science, St. Thomas Aquinas College
- Joe Riggio, Founder of Varsity House Gym, Member of the St. Thomas Aquinas College STEM Advisory Board
- Dr. Kristin Ryffel, PT, DPT, Director of Operations & Outpatient Rehabilitation Services, Valley Health Systems
“The STEM Advisory Board at St. Thomas Aquinas College is pleased to host a panel of experts to explore the latest advancements in exercise science and health innovation,” said Robert Catell, Chair of the College’s STEM Advisory Board, Chairman of the Advanced Energy Research & Technology Center and National Offshore Wind Research & Development Consortium, Former Chairman and CEO, KeySpan. This event highlights how cutting-edge research and practices are reshaping modern wellness. Events like this underscore the vital role of STEM in driving innovation, fostering community engagement, and shaping a healthier future for all.”
A Q & A and networking opportunity will follow the discussion. To register for the event and submit questions for our speakers, please complete this form: stac.edu/stempanel.
St. Thomas Aquinas College offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science, featuring concentrations in Kinesiology and Allied Health, along with a minor in Exercise Science. Students gain hands-on experience through the Exercise Is Medicine On Campus initiative, which fosters education and awareness around exercise and physical activity to promote healthy habits within the campus community. Looking ahead, the College is launching a new Master of Science in Exercise Science program in Fall 2025.
About St. Thomas Aquinas College
St. Thomas Aquinas College is an independent liberal arts college located on 76 acres in Rockland County, NY, providing education at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The College’s diverse student body of approximately 2,000 full and part-time students can choose from over 100 majors, minors, and specializations across four Schools: Arts & Social Sciences, Business, Education, and STEM. The College is recognized by U.S. News & World Report in the Top-Tier for Regional Universities, and by Colleges of Distinction in its New York edition for Business, Education, and Career Development. The College is also recognized as a Yellow Ribbon Program institution. St. Thomas Aquinas College is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools; its School of Education is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), and its School of Business is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). For more information, visit stac.edu.