Meet Dr. Erin White, Professor of Health, Exercise & Rehabilitative Sciences (HERS) at Winona State University.
This year, Dr. White received the Professor of the Year award from Winona State. She was also named a Fellow by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the world’s largest sports medicine and exercise science organization.
Who Is Dr. Erin White?
Dr. Erin White joined Winona State in 2011—her very first job out of graduate school—and has been shaping the HERS program and mentoring students ever since.
Her favorite part of teaching? Getting to know and supporting her students and creating opportunities for them to grow:
“I not only want to teach my students the content but also to let them know that I care about them as human beings first and foremost. Education is important, but their health and well-being are more important.”
How Does She View Being Awarded Professor of the Year?
In 2025, Dr. Erin White was named Professor of the Year at Winona State. This is an award given annually on behalf of the student body to a professor who goes above and beyond for their students.
For Dr. White, the award is about more than recognition.
“[Receiving this award] means my passion and dedication to teaching are valued. Students see me not only as an expert in my field but also as someone who cares deeply about their growth and well-being.”
She believes the award reflects the kind of education students can expect at WSU:
“They’re getting the educational experience every campus wants to offer. When students take a class with the Professor of the Year—chosen by their peers—they know they’re learning from the best.”
What Is She Doing as an ACSM Fellow?
For Dr. Erin White, becoming a Fellow of the American College Sports Medicine (ACSM) has been a career-long goal, coming with a lifetime of commitment.
The ACSM fellowship recognizes commendable service to the college and distinguished achievement in sports medicine and related fields.
Dr. White will continue acting as the Executive Director for the Northland Chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine. She will also serve as the Regional Chapter Committee representative.
“I plan to continue engaging with ACSM, as it was the professional organization that got me started and has opened up so many opportunities to me.”
Fun Fact: Dr. White is the first and only HERS faculty member who has been awarded a fellowship from ACSM since she joined Winona State in 2011.
How Will the Fellowship Impact Student Success?
“Now that I hold Fellow status, it allows me to serve in a new capacity—one I plan to pursue.”
Dr. Erin White says her Fellowship will strengthen her teaching by showing students the value of professional organizations, presenting, and attending conferences.
“I’ll also be able to sponsor student and faculty abstracts, which will make a major contribution to students presenting nationally.”
