About Me

Hello!

My name is Maureen Ann Walsh. I was raised in a small town in Western Pennsylvania known as just PA. Beginning at a very young age, I rolled up my sleeves and worked along side my father at our small family coffee roasting business - hence the espresso enthusiast.  O'Neill Coffee Company has been in our family for over 70 years and I was the 4th generation to work there. 

However, when it came time to select a college major, I realized had a strong interest in the human body.  When I wasn't roasting coffee in my younger years, I was a bunhead ballerina. Together those two activities shaped my development to work hard. I selected to attend Slippery Rock University (SRU) and study Exercise Science. During my time at SRU I became involved in research beginning my freshman year. Then, my sophomore year I was asked to assist co-teaching/mentoring a freshman class. Flash forward and I found my niche, obtained 2 publications, 3 presentations, and impacted 150+ students inside the classroom. Upon graduating Summa Cum Laude, I moved to Northern Colorado to pursue my master's and Ph.D. at Colorado State University in the Translational Research on Aging and Chronic Disease (TRACD) Laboratory under the mentorship of Dr. Karyn Hamilton. For more about the science click "Research" For more about how I cultivate an inclusive and enthusiastic classroom environment click "Teaching." After completing my Ph.D. in May of 2024 I accepted a tenure track assistant professor position at my alma mater Slippery Rock University. I cannot wait to inspire the next generation of students.

Outside the lab, I enjoy riding and running long distances (preferably ultramarathons and 100+ mi rides) and supporting outreach opportunities to support youth and running organizations (click "Outreach"). Of course, nothing can be done without at least a morning pot of O'Neill Coffee!

Noted at the top is - Nulla tenaci invia est via - For the tenacious no road is impassable. I believe tenacity is a powerful thing. It fuels long rides and runs, graduate school days, and the commitment to family and friends. Be kind! Be strong! Be tenacious!