Shannon K. Fitzgerald '14, MSN, BS, RN, CV-BC, CCRP, ACSM-CEP

has been selected by the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) as the 2026 ACSM Certified Professional of the Year. This distinguished award recognizes an outstanding ACSM certified professional who has made exceptional contributions to advancing the health, well-being, and quality of life of individuals and communities through exercise science and clinical practice. Fitzgerald is a clinical exercise physiologist and registered nurse serving at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Manchester, New Hampshire and has been selected for her visionary leadership and impactful innovations in expanding access to rehabilitation services.  “We’re not defined by one role or one season of life,” Fitzgerald said. “Life and wellness aren’t about perfection; they are about persistence and possibility. It’s a privilege to witness the resilience of my patients every day, and an even greater privilege to be a part of a profession that helps people find their way back to themselves.” Fitzgerald received her bachelor of science in Exercise Science from Fitchburg State.