NC State Wellness and Recreation has presented Michael McDermott with the 2025-26 John F. Miller Award, honoring his four years of leadership and service.

The John F. Miller Award holds a special place in the department’s history. Named after the first Department Head of Physical Education and Athletics at NC State and the driving force behind the state’s first Intramural Sports program, the award honors a visionary legacy. It is awarded to a student employee program assistant who embodies Miller’s commitment to leadership, teamwork and the power of healthy, active lifestyles.

Since joining the member services team in 2022 as a first-year student, McDermott has exemplified these qualities. He has navigated staff expansions and a major departmental restructuring. His leadership was most evident in the summer of 2024, when he stepped in as a pseudo-coordinator to overhaul operations and mentor new professional staff.

McDermott is a constant presence at the facility, consistently modeling the healthy, active lifestyle the department promotes. Whether he is working out, studying, completing his own professional responsibilities, or stepping in to assist his peers during their shifts, he is a familiar and supportive face to all.

Beyond his administrative duties, McDermott’s impact is felt in his dedication to safety. During his time as a student, he earned his EMT certification, a credential he has frequently utilized to respond to emergencies within the facility. His ability to remain calm and apply his medical training in high-pressure situations has made him an invaluable asset to both staff and members.

“Michael has been a reliable leader navigating changes in staff and structure,” noted colleague Eial. “He has always strived to make the member services team the best it can be.”

McDermott’s impact reached far beyond internal logistics. In 2025, his tour of the facility was credited with convincing a prospective Park Scholar to enroll at NC State. He subsequently developed the training curriculum now used to ensure all supervisors provide a top-tier visitor experience.

Staff and peers consistently praise his accessibility and humor. Whether responding to team needs while off the clock or fostering a welcoming environment for users, McDermott’s presence has been a defining feature of the facility.

“Michael goes out of his way to make people feel welcome,” said Scott. “He makes me feel valued as an employee.”

A recent story on the Wellness and Recreation website,“Finding His Voice,” details how he transformed from a quiet new employee to a valued leader. His supervisor noted, “WellRec would not be the same without his presence and dedication over the past four years.”

Congratulations to the 2024-25 John F. Miller Award Nominees

• Jimmy Kinsella, Aquatics
• Emily Palmer, Aquatics
• John Skordoulis, Aquatics
• Hannah Loftin, Facility Operations
• Morgan Miller, Facility Operations
• Anneke Lam, Fitness
• Maggie Berry, Outdoor Adventures
• Disha Chhaya, ThriveWell

Supporting the Next Generation 

You can help support future student employees, leaders, and the annual Wolfies celebration by donating to the Wellness and Recreation Enhancement Fund. Your contribution ensures that the legacy of leadership defined by students like Michael continues to thrive for years to come.

History of John F. Miller Award Winners

• 2024 – 25 | Becca Strong, Fitness
• 2023 – 24 | Kaylyn Poole, Facility Operations
• 2022 – 23 | Joanna Wenchell, Member Services
• 2021 – 22 | Hannah Williams, Sports Programs
• 2020 – 21 | Bharat Karunakaran, Sports Programs
• 2019 – 20 | Jarred Taylor, Wellness
• 2018 – 19 | Jordan Kelber, Facility Operations
• 2017 – 18 | Chloe Shevlin, Fitness
• 2016 – 17 | Brandon Smith, Sports Programs
• 2015 – 16 | Kara Van Nice, Aquatics
• 2014- 15 | Zach Mehlenbacher, Sports Programs
• 2013 – 14 | Justin Mumford, Facility Operations, Member Services
• 2012 – 13 | Ryan Unsworth, Aquatics
• 2011 – 12 | Aaron Harper, Sports Programs
• 2011 – 12 | Brian Cox, Facility Operations