SOXAARRDEC Gathers EB Members for the 1st Quarter Meeting CY 2026 at CSU
April 23, 2026
Kayle Arbado, a third-year Bachelor of Physical Education student from the College of Human Kinetics (CHK) at the University of Southern Mindanao, earned selection as a 2026 Dr. Thomas L. McKenzie International Scholarship awardee.
The International Organization for Health, Sports, and Kinesiology (IOHSK) established the Dr. Thomas L. McKenzie Scholarships to honor the enduring legacy of Dr. Thomas L. McKenzie, its Lifetime Honorary President and a globally recognized leader in physical education, physical activity promotion, and public health. Through this program, IOHSK continues to recognize students who demonstrate excellence and commitment to advancing health and movement sciences worldwide.
In a parallel achievement, Alijan Akmad, also a third-year student from the same college, secured the 2026 Lucy T. Shoham Memorial Scholarship.
This scholarship preserves the memory of Lucy T. Shoham, who passed away in 2022 at the age of 100. She was the mother of Randi (Shoham) McKenzie and the mother-in-law of Dr. Thomas L. McKenzie. The award continues her legacy by supporting students who pursue meaningful contributions in health, sports, and education.
Both scholarship programs operate under IOHSK, which designs these opportunities to support outstanding undergraduate and graduate students who exhibit strong academic performance, research potential, leadership skills, and a deep dedication to advancing physical education, kinesiology, and physical activity for diverse communities across the globe.
Dr. Ruben L. Tagare, Jr., a CHK faculty member who serves as Philippine Ambassador to IOHSK, IOHSK Board Member, and IOHSK Fellow, recommended both students, helping strengthen their eligibility for the international awards.
Following these achievements, the College of Human Kinetics expressed its sincere appreciation to IOHSK, led by President and CEO Dr. Hosung So, for continuously opening global opportunities that allow students to develop their potential and pursue academic excellence.
Currently, CHK records six IOHSK scholars. Alongside this milestone, two students in 2025 secured selection for a travel and research grant, which will send them to Korea for the 9th IOHSK International Conference.
