HPU Senior Caroline Rivera Wins 2023 AKA Undergraduate Scholar Award
HIGH POINT, N.C., May 3, 2023 – High Point University student Caroline Rivera was named the 2023 American Kinesiology Association’s National Undergraduate Scholar.
Rivera was selected from 57 nominations of AKA undergraduate scholars nationwide as the undergraduate student with the most distinguished academic and leadership record, said Dr. Dan Tarara, associate professor and chair of the Department of Health & Human Performance. As the national award winner, she received an AKA medal, a national certificate of recognition, $100 gift card and will be recognized in an upcoming issue of Kinesiology Today.
“It’s an honor to be recognized by the American Kinesiology Association for my work in undergraduate research as I’m currently pursuing a career in scientific research of human diseases,” said Rivera, who is from Raleigh, North Carolina. “After graduating from HPU, I will be attending Duke University to obtain my Ph.D. in molecular genetics and microbiology.”
Rivera is a senior completing dual degrees in exercise science and chemistry with a 3.99/4.0 GPA. She is an HPU Presidential Scholar and part of the Honors Scholars Fellows program. She served as a supplemental instructor of general chemistry and as a tutor in human physiology. Over the past four years, she completed several undergraduate research projects under the mentorship of Dr. Roger Vaughan, associate professor. Rivera was also a member of the HPU Marching Band, the Clarinet Ensemble and Wind Ensemble.
“Caroline represents the best of High Point University,” said Tarara. “She is a model student who excelled in both the sciences and the liberal arts humanities. The two have been important for her growth as a student and have prepared her for the next step in her academic journey – the Ph.D. program at Duke University.”
Rivera took advantage of HPU undergraduate research opportunities as a first-year student and never looked back, Tarara said.
“Under Dr. Roger Vaughan’s mentorship, Caroline grew her laboratory skill set and independently developed unique research projects about skeletal muscle metabolism and diabetes,” said Tarara. “This collaboration led Caroline to co-author several peer-reviewed manuscripts in scientific journals – a truly amazing accomplishment.”
Vaughan provided a personal reflection on his work with Rivera.
“I would just also like to add that beyond her numerous academic accolades, she is also undeniably pleasant, kind, respectful and humble,” said Vaughan. “She has truly been a delightful person to work with.”
The annual AKA Scholar Awards recognize and promote academic excellence, to further the professional competence and dedication of academically accomplished students, and to promote kinesiology and related fields.