Christine Pellegrini, PhD
Dr. Pellegrini’s research focuses on the development and implementation of technology-supported behavioral interventions targeting diet, physical activity, sedentary behavior and weight loss.
Faculty/Staff
Ellen Wingard, MSPH, RD, LD
Ellen is the Project Coordinator for the Technology Interventions to Improve Outcomes After Knee Replacement Study and the Healthy Living After Knee Replacement Study. Ellen obtained her BS degree in Food Science/Human Nutrition from Clemson University and is a Registered Dietition. She also obtained her MSPH from UofSC in Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior. Her background includes experience in clinical nutrition and research study coordination/intervention implementation.
Jakob Nelson, MS
Jakob is the project coordinator for the MOST Energized! Study. Jakob attended Augusta University and obtained his BS in Kinesiology with a concentration in Exercise Science. He also obtained his MS in Exercise Science from UofSC. Jakob is interested in behavioral interventions targeting mental health awareness, sedentary behavior, and physical activity. In his free time, he enjoys playing basketball, golf and pickleball. He is a huge Cleveland Browns, Cleveland Guardians, and Dallas Mavericks fan!
Melissa Stansbury, PhD, ACSM-EP, NBC-HWC
Melissa serves as Health Coach and Coaching Coordinator for programs in the Tech Health Center. Drawing on her PhD in Exercise Science and over 15 years of experience in coaching, research, and program development, she is dedicated to supporting individuals and communities in achieving meaningful, sustainable lifestyle change. Grounded in compassion and collaboration, her holistic approach empowers people to connect with their values, activate their strengths, and elevate their wellbeing with clarity, confidence, and purpose. "Rooted & Rising!"
Wendy Kemp, RDN
Wendy is a registered dietitian nutritionist with 25 years of experience helping individuals to improve their health through evidence -nutrition and lifestyle strategies. For the last 10 years, she has worked extensively on research studies for the University of South Carolina and Dana Farber Cancer Institute, helping to advance evidence-based approaches to health and wellness. She is passionate about translating research into practical, realistic guidelines that support long-term health and well-being.
Graduate Students
Scott T. Jamieson, MS
Scott is a doctoral student in the Department of Exercise Science. Scott comes from Geisinger Medical Center, formerly serving as the metabolic laboratory manager within the Center for Nutrition and Weight Management. His research interests include targeted lifestyle interventions for patients with obesity, osteoarthritis and other metabolic disorders.
Kailyn Horn, DPT
Kailyn is a doctoral student in the Department of Exercise Science. She obtained her BS in Health Science from North Greenville University and her Doctor of Physical Therapy from USC. Kailyn is interested in behavioral interventions regarding physical activity, quality of movement, and vestibular rehabilitation. She enjoys volleyball, hiking National Parks, and spending time with friends and family.
Sara Nakhi, MHIT, PTA
Sara is a doctoral student in the Department of Exercise Science. She earned her BS in Physics engineering from Iran University, PTA from Midlands Technical College, and Master of Health IT from University of South Carolina. Sara is interested in behavioral and technological interventions in older adults to improve quality of life and physical activity. Sara loves travelling, dancing, and spending quality time with her family.
Jongwon Lee, MPH
Jongwon is a doctoral student in the Department of Exercise Science at the University of South Carolina. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Korea National Sports University and his Master of Public Health in Health Policy from Emory University. His research interest is motivating physical activity and reducing sedentary behavior.
LeeAnne Stokes
LeeAnne is an MPH student concentrating in Physical Activity and Public Health within the Department of Exercise Science. She earned her BS in Public Health from the University of South Carolina, graduating in May 2025 with minors in Dance, Psychology, and Neuroscience. Her academic background and personal experiences as a dancer led her to develop a strong interest in research. LeeAnne is interested in physical activity interventions, especially those related to health outcomes, injury prevention, and lifestyle changes. She enjoys ballet, running, and spending time with friends and family.
Undergraduate Students
Zoe May
Zoe is a Sophomore Exercise Science major with a minor in Dance. She is a member of the Carolina Coquettes Dance Team here at the University of South Carolina. She works as an intern for the Athletic Trainer of One Knox’s Soccer Team during the summer. She plans to become an orthopedic PA.
Tanyah Williams
Tanyah Williams is an undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. She is passionate about rehabilitation and plans to attend an accredited Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. In her free time, Tanyah enjoys volunteering, catching up with friends, and watching movies.
Olivia Allen
Olivia is an undergraduate student at the University of South Carolina pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Public Health. After graduation, she plans to get her MPH in Physical Activity and Public Health and an accredited certificate in Global Health in order to work in International PA promotion. She is interested in physical activity and nutrition's link to longevity and well-being, health promotion in women and children, and exercise in relation to disease prevention. In her free time, she enjoys going for a run or taking an exercise class, reading, and going out to eat!
Claire Smith
Claire is an undergraduate student at the University of South Carolina pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Public Health. After graduation, she hopes to attend dental school. Claire is interested in the connection of physical activity to mental health, prevention of chronic disease through a healthy lifestyle, nutrition, and oral health. In her free time, she loves cooking, running, reading, and going to coffee shops!
Former Staff & Students
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Hanee Patel
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Clare Kennerley
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Jessica Brew
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Lillie Beckham
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Zachery Burzee
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Daniel Heidtke
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Katherine DeVivo
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Cortney Ouellette
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Daniyal Mirza
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Landon Borchardt
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Anne Kowalski
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Tyson Ansani
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Brittany Sutton
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Sweta Mandilwar
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Kaitlin Milam
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Katty Jones
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Kaitlyn Ramey