UC Exercise Science Expo connects students with industry leaders and career opportunities

On April 3, 2026, the University of Cincinnati’s (UC) Exercise Science (EXSC) program hosted its third annual Exercise Science Expo in the Tangeman University Center and surrounding facilities on UC's main campus.

The event brought together approximately 385 attendees, including UC EXSC students, CECH alumni, industry professionals and community partners for a day focused on presentations, networking and career development opportunities.

The expo was organized by assistant professor Naomi Matley and program coordinator and associate professor Julia Buchanan, who aimed to continue building on the success and growth of the event over the past two years.

"Since its inaugural event in 2024, the expo has continued to grow in both attendance and participation," says Matley. "This reflects the strength of the exercise science community in Cincinnati and the increasing demand for resources and experiences that help students build meaningful professional connections, explore career options and prepare for successful futures in the profession.

"We are grateful for the continued support of our students, alumni, faculty and industry partners, and we look forward to building on this momentum at next year's expo."

Throughout the event, students had the opportunity to connect directly with employers, learn about careers in exercise science and healthcare-related fields, and gain professional development experience outside the classroom.

"We are grateful for the continued support of our students, alumni, faculty and industry partners."

Naomi MatleyAssistant professor and co-organizer of the EXSC Expo

One of the employers present at the expo was Life Enriching Communities, a nonprofit senior living organization focused on helping older adults live meaningful and fulfilling lives through supportive, faith-based communities.

“We're trying to find great people to help serve our communities, while also bringing opportunities back to students here at the University of Cincinnati,” said Brandyn Frisdon, senior manager of talent acquisition at Life Enriching Communities. “We believe in community first, and that’s all-encompassing—taking care of students, giving them opportunities to serve our residents and communities, and bringing the best talent into our organization to care for our residents.”

Frisdon said the organization looks for students who demonstrate leadership, initiative and strong relationship-building skills.

“The traits we’re looking for in students and potential hires are a focus on community service and customer service,” Frisdon said. “Building relationships is also ideal. We value people who take initiative, are respectful and demonstrate leadership. It’s really about embodying those qualities and showing strong character to help take care of our residents.”

Connecting students to a wide variety of opportunities is the primary purpose of the annual event, says Matley.

"The Exercise Science Expo was created to connect students with industry professionals, alumni, faculty, research experiences and experiential learning opportunities while showcasing the varied career pathways available within the field," she says. "The event also provides students with the opportunity to present their research, internship experiences and professional projects while engaging with leaders across the industry. Featuring more than 40 speakers and presenters, the expo offers attendees access to a wide range of expertise and perspectives from across the health, fitness, cardiac rehab, performance and sport science professions."

As the event continues to grow each year, the Exercise Science Expo has become an opportunity for students to explore career pathways, strengthen professional connections and engage with l

eaders in the field before graduation.

Featured image at top: A crowd gathered in UC's Tangeman University Center for the third annual Exercise Science Expo. Photo by CECH Marketing