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Western Colorado University / Christina Buchanan
Christina Buchanan

Christina Buchanan

Professor, High Altitude Exercise Physiology Director
970.943.2027
Paul Wright Gym 224

Education

Ph.D., Colorado State University, Education and Health and Exercise Science, 2008
M.S., Colorado State University, Health and Exercise Science, 2001
B.A., Mount Holyoke College, Anthropology, 1995

Schools

Departments

Academic Programs

Biography

How did you discover Western?

My mother and brother came to Gunnison in 1997 for sabbatical and school, respectively. My mother came to paint the vistas (at the time she was a professor at San Francisco State in film and animation), and my brother went to Western to complete his prerequisites for veterinary school (he went on to graduate as a vet from CSU, Fort Collins). I came out to visit a number of times before attending graduate school at CSU. I loved the location and was fortunate enough to land a full-time lecturer position in 2004.

What are some of the highlights of your career?

Co-Coordinating Celebration of Scholarship. Being involved in the development of, and then becoming the Director of, the First Year Seminar program. Development of the Master of Science in Exercise & Sport Science: High Altitude Exercise Physiology (HAEP). Directing, and teaching in, the HAEP program. Working with a research group studying genetics and health and birth outcomes in Tibetan women living in Nepal—field research to take place summer 2019.

What most excites you about your field?

The field of Exercise Science and Physiology is constantly changing. I like to say: The more I know, the less I know—which isn’t always a bad thing. Additionally, I am proud that our students gain the skills and expertise to help people improve their health, performance and lives.

What is your favorite thing about the Gunnison Valley?

Everything! The people, the landscape, the awesome mountain biking and skiing!

Courses Taught

  • ESS 495: Senior Seminar
  • ESS 601: Quantitative Research Methods
  • ESS 606: Exercise Sport Science Testing
  • ESS 650: EEP SEM Thesis Proposal Development
  • ESS 695: Thesis

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