Shenandoah University Professor Recognized By Girls On The Run

By Jace Gibson ’26

Girls on the Run Shenandoah Valley has announced Wendy Carlson, Ph.D., associate professor of psychology, as the winner of this year’s Remarkable Volunteer Award for her nearly 15 years of continued volunteer work and contribution.

When I was looking for ways to serve my community back in 2011, I came across Girls on the Run and was instantly drawn to its mission. In my time as a coach, I witnessed girls go from questioning their abilities and hesitating to express themselves to recognizing their power and potential to be themselves and help others do the same. While it feels good to give back to my community, it feels even better to see girls come out of their shells, push themselves outside of their comfort zones, and shoot for the stars.”

Wendy Carlson

Girls on the Run is a physical activity-based positive youth development program for girls in grades 3–8. Through fun team-building activities, group discussions, and movement-based games, participants build confidence, increase physical activity, and develop essential life skills. Each season concludes with a community impact project and a celebratory 5K. 

Since 2011, Carlson has served a variety of roles with Girls on the Run Shenandoah Valley, including volunteer coach, certified national coach trainer, board member, and most recently board chair. In her nearly 15 years of volunteering, she has helped train hundreds of coaches and helped the program navigate the financial aftermath of the COVID pandemic.

“Serving in these different roles with GOTR Shenandoah Valley has been a transformative experience for me,” said Carlson. “I’m grateful every day that I chose this organization to devote my time and enthusiasm. Thank you, Shenandoah University, for making it part of your mission to educate and inspire individuals to make meaningful contributions to their communities.”

To learn more about Girls on the Run Shenandoah Valley, visit girlsontherunsv.org.