The ACSM Foundation is excited to announce the new Brian C. Focht Student Travel Award to assist students with travel expenses to present their research at the ACSM Annual Meeting. This new award has been established in memory of Brian C Focht, PhD, RD, FACSM, a Professor of Kinesiology and Director of the Exercise and Behavioral Medicine Lab at The Ohio State University.
Dr. Focht’s research focused on the role of exercise in enhancing health and wellbeing, preventing chronic disease, and recovering from cancer. Although Dr. Focht’s passed away in 2024, his spirit and impact remain today. His character, integrity, and commitment to rigorous science left an indelible mark on all who knew him. This award serves as a testament to those values, aiming to inspire students to embody his spirit of mentorship and dedication to excellence in exercise and behavioral medicine. Dr. Focht was widely regarded as a kind and compassionate human, with a commitment to conducting thoughtful and rigorous research.
Eligibility:
- Open to all ACSM graduate (masters, doctoral) and medical students enrolled in full-time programs and conducting research in the area of cancer. Focus areas include, but are not limited to: exercise, nutrition, implementation science, behavioral intervention, sleep and/or technology.
- Applicants must be an ACSM national member in good standing before applying. ACSM chapter membership alone does not fulfill this requirement.
- Applicants must be the presenter of an abstract accepted at the ACSM Annual Meeting.
- Previous recipients of the Brian C Focht Student Travel Award are not eligible to apply.
How to apply:
- Through the ACSM Foundation website portal
- Applications open: February 2, 2026
- Applications close: March 13, 2026
Award Requirements:
- Winners must attend the ACSM Honors reception to be recognized for receiving the award. A complimentary ticket will be provided.
Number of awards to be given per year: 1
Amount of each award: $500
This new award is supported by the Brian C. Focht memorial fund was established to celebrate and perpetuate Dr. Focht’s immense dedication to student membership and engagement with the ACSM community. The memorial fund aims to honor Dr. Focht’s passion for nurturing the next generation of leaders in exercise oncology. Online donations to support this new award may be made here. Mailed donations can be made to: American College of Sports Medicine Foundation 6510 Telecom Dr., STE 200 Indianapolis, IN 46278
