Linda Carson

Linda Carson was inducted into the College of Applied Human Sciences Hall of Fame in the fall of 2025. She was previously inducted into the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Hall of Fame in 2012 and named CPASS Outstanding Alumna in 2016.

Carson served on the WVU faculty for more than 30 years and was the first professor from CPASS to receive WVU’s Outstanding Teacher Award. She earned her doctoral degree from West Virginia University and, after an early faculty appointment at Purdue University, returned to WVU to serve in the Teacher Education program and as director of the Motor Development Center. In that role, she created innovative learning laboratories and award-winning physical activity programs for infants through elementary-aged children, often involving family members as active participants.

She is the founder and CEO of Choosy Kids, LLC, a nationally recognized West Virginia-based company dedicated to developing healthy habits early in life. Under her leadership, Choosy Kids has provided professional development training and health-focused educational resources to early childhood educators, allied health professionals, and families in the U.S. and internationally. Carson’s work has been recognized by multiple Parents’ Choice Awards and the 2016 CD of the Year from Creative Child Press. Her children’s character, Choosy, is used by educators, pediatricians, and dentists across the country to support healthy messages related to nutrition, physical activity, and oral health.

Carson has served as a national trainer and consultant for major federal initiatives, including I Am Moving, I Am Learning and Little Voices for Healthy Choices. She also led training through the Head Start National Center on Early Childhood Health and Wellness. 

Carson received numerous awards throughout her career including WVU’s Outstanding Teacher Award, Ware Distinguished Professor, Patch Award for Outstanding Community Service, Eugene M. Fuller Award for the Most Outstanding Recreation Programs in West Virginia, WV Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance Honor Award for Distinguished Professional Service, National Honor Award for Excellence in Partnering from U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the NAGWS Pathfinder Award for her career contribution to the well-being and skill development of young children. She was inducted into the WVU Academy of Distinguished Alumni in 2017