Associate Professor Dr. Jaclyn Maher has been honored with the 2025 Thomas Undergradate Research Award in the tenured faculty category. Since joining UNCG in 2017, Dr. Maher has mentored 54 undergraduates in independent studies, guiding them through all aspects of physical activity research — from recruitment and training to data analysis and publication.
My approach to undergraduate research and teaching heavily emphasizes experiential learning while prioritizing inclusion. It is important to me that all undergraduate students become comfortable engaging with scientific research because, as future health professionals, they will need to be able to review and evaluate the literature to inform their own evidence-based practice
Dr. Jaclyn Maher, director of the Center for Women’s Health and Wellness
Dr. Maher’s impact as a mentor is evident in her students’ accomplishments. Her mentees have co-authored peer-reviewed manuscripts, secured competitive research awards, and presented their work at local, regional, and national conferences. Several have gone on to become McNair Scholars, Williams Scholars, and recipients of School of Health and Human Sciences awards, highlighting the reach of her mentorship. Beyond these achievements, she has also collaborated with students from N.C. A&T through the American Heart Association’s HBCU Scholars Program.
Maher’s dedication to undergraduate research has been recognized before — she received the Thomas Award in the pre-tenure category in 2022 and UNCG’s Early Career Research Excellence Award in 2024.
What truly sets Dr. Maher apart is her genuine investment in her students’ success. Beyond academic, she celebrated my achievements, attending events marking milestones, and provided thoughtful encouragement and support during challenging times
-Iman Khan ’24