Alumnus Matt Stock, Ph.D., ’06, Receives Prestigious Editorial Excellence Award

Schmidt College of Science alumnus Matt S. Stock, Ph.D., ‘06, FNSCA, CSCS, was named the 2024 recipient of the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research (JSCR) Editorial Excellence Award. Stock, a graduate of the college’s Department of Exercise Science and Health Promotion (ESHP), was selected based on his overall contributions and service to the journal and the National Strength and Conditioning Association® (NSCA).

“I am deeply honored to receive this award,” expressed Stock. “The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research has played a crucial role in my professional growth. Many previous recipients of this award are field leaders whom I’ve long admired and respected.”

Stock received the award during the NSCA’s national conference and awards banquet held on July 12, in Baltimore, MD. Founded in 1978, the NSCA is a 501(c)(3) educational nonprofit dedicated to advancing science and education in the field.

“The NSCA is the leading organization for evidence-based strength and conditioning information,” said Stock. “I have been a member for over 20 years and have served in several roles, including as president of the NSCA Foundation. The NSCA does a great job disseminating information and connecting with members. The networking opportunities and seeing old friends are among the many reasons I attend the national conference every year.”

When he’s not editing the JSCR, Stock is an associate professor and the director of the Institute of Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation Science at the University of Central Florida (UCF). He teaches physiology and research methods courses within UCF’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. In addition, he also mentors both undergraduate and graduate students on research projects. Stock’s research interests involve understanding the neuromuscular adaptations associated with disuse, aging/sarcopenia, and exercise rehabilitation.

“My research expertise is in neuromuscular physiology, and my team uses a variety of tools to non-invasively study adaptations to resistance training, aging, and exercise rehabilitation,” stated Stock. “Moreover, as director of UCF’s Research Institute, I provide leadership and guidance to other labs and scientists and synergize interdisciplinary research efforts among scientists and students in kinesiology, physical therapy, athletic training, and related disciplines.”

As an undergraduate student at Florida Atlantic, Stock said he feels lucky to have had several mentors, including B. Sue Graves, Ed. D., FACSM, FISSN, longtime director of the FAU Well Program and ESHP associate professor, and Jeffrey R. Stout, Ph.D., who is now his boss at UCF. Stock said that the college’s faculty was always very supportive and student-centered.

“My time at Florida Atlantic holds a special place in my memories,” shared Stock. “When I entered the program, I was passionate about the field but lacked focus. The program, along with the South Florida area, provided numerous opportunities for involvement, which I eagerly pursued. Faculty members were well-connected in their respective fields and emphasized the importance of networking, attending conferences, and seeking out new opportunities. This environment helped me develop academically and professionally.”

For current exercise science students, Stock had some parting advice. He wanted to emphasize two key points:

“First, apply your knowledge beyond the classroom and build professional connections. Students who actively seek opportunities, attend conferences, remain open-minded, and put their education into practice typically achieve the most success,” said Stock. “Second, recognize the vital role of exercise in health care and medicine. Our field is exciting and offers significant potential for improving future health outcomes. Take pride in your choice to study exercise science.”