H. Scott Kieffer, Ed.D., FACSM ACSM ETT

Dr. Kieffer is a dedicated educator and scholar who integrates his passion for teaching with a strong commitment to undergraduate research, providing students with transformative experiential learning opportunities. He has authored and presented numerous research studies, often featuring undergraduate students as lead authors, underscoring his mentorship and collaborative approach. Throughout his tenure at Messiah University, Dr. Kieffer has been recognized for excellence in teaching, earning the Outstanding Teaching Award at both the junior faculty and full professor levels. Beyond the classroom, he has demonstrated exceptional professional service through longstanding involvement with the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM). His leadership includes serving on multiple national committees and contributing over two decades to the Mid-Atlantic Regional Chapter of ACSM in roles such as Research Chair, President, and Executive Director.

• B.S./B.A. David and Elkins College
• M.S. University of Nebraska-Kearney
• Ed.D. University of South Dakota

• APHS 225- Research Methods and Statistical Analysis
• APHS 271- Kinesiology
• APHS 215- Chronic Disease and Exercise Science
• BIOL 385- Gross Anatomy (cadaver dissection)

Dr. Kieffer’s scholarly interests encompass undergraduate research, exercise physiology, human anatomy, obesity and weight management, training specificity in athletic performance, and the effects of caffeine on exercise outcomes. His recent research focuses on the neurobiological benefits of physical activity, particularly the role of exercise in promoting brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) release, as well as the genetic factors that influence individual variability in response to exercise.