The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) introduced Kristin C. Belleson as its new chief executive officer. Belleson will begin her new role on February 3, 2020.
“Following an extensive, international search, Kristin was the unanimous choice of our Executive Search Committee,” said ACSM President William E. Kraus, M.D., FACSM. “We were impressed by Kristin’s energy, professionalism and clear leadership qualities, including the ability to not only cast a vision for ACSM, but also implement the strategies to fulfill that vision.”
Belleson joins ACSM from the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), where she served as interim chief operating officer and vice president of affiliate affairs and membership services. The association is the representative member organization for osteopathic medical doctors and students in the United States.
In her new role with ACSM, Belleson will lead the largest sports medicine and exercise science organization in the world. “I am thrilled to be able to serve the ACSM Board of Trustees, staff and membership as chief executive officer,” said Belleson. “As a former Division 1 athlete, I have a deep love and passion for athletics and sports, which has helped me to understand the importance of not only health and fitness but also the importance of teams and collaboration. To be able to merge my personal and professional passions is exciting.”
Belleson has more than 20 years of successful experience in association and nonprofit management. In addition to AOA, she has held management positions with the American Dental Association (ADA), Society of Gynecologic Oncology and Foundation for Women’s Cancer, Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA) and the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago.
“Over the course of her career, Kristin has developed keen insights into all facets of association management and operations,” continued Kraus. “Her experience, energy and vision will serve ACSM well as she leads our organization into its next era of success.”
