March 25, 2025 | Emily Reier ’28
Allyson Moore ’25 is not only excelling in her studies as a Healthful Living & Fitness Education major but also navigating personal challenges with unwavering resilience and dedication.
Originally from Kingsport, TN, Moore transferred to UNCW in Fall 2023, drawn by her love for surfing and a deep passion for health and wellness. Growing up, Moore was involved in a variety of sports, including cross country, track and field, and of course, surfing. It was this love for movement and fitness that led her to pursue a degree in health and fitness education. But her journey hasn’t always been smooth sailing.
With both her parents battling cancer, Moore has faced the overwhelming challenge of balancing her academic goals with the financial burden that came with their treatments, and her tuition. It was through the support of three scholarships that Moore was able to continue her studies with confidence.
Moore is the recipient of the Dr. Amelia C. Huelskamp Health and Fitness CHHS Scholarship, established in 2021 to assist undergraduate students in CHHS pursuing health or fitness degrees; the Dr. T. Earl Allen, Jr. Scholarship, which honors the 30-year career and long-time contributions of Dr. Earl Allen to UNCW’s School of Healthy and Applied Human Science; and the John P. Bennett, Ed.D. Scholarship in Health and Physical Education, which honors of Dr. Bennett’s commitment to excellence in health and physical education.
"Surprised and relieved is an understatement,” said Moore, reflecting on when she first learned she was a scholarship recipient. “These scholarships will not only help me continue my studies but also reassured me that my parents wouldn’t need to worry about financing my education while going undergoing their treatments.”
The scholarships Moore received are closely aligned with her academic and career goals, providing her with essential support on her journey.
Moore’s scholarship support has had a profound, enriching impact on her education.
"Receiving these scholarships has allowed me to focus more on my studies, become more engaged with my professors, and take part in hands-on learning experiences,” she shared.
Moore has taught surfing for the last four summers at the Carolina School of Surf in Ocean Isle Beach, fostering her love for teaching and ocean safety. She is also an active member of the UNCW Track/Cross Country Club and works as a Veteran Affairs (VA) student worker, helping military-affiliated students navigate their educational journey.
As a proud daughter of a Vietnam veteran, Moore’s connection to the military runs deep. This year, she is set to become a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), continuing her family’s legacy of service.
After graduation, Moore envisions herself working in healthcare, teaching sports, and using her knowledge of exercise science to support her community in meaningful ways. She credits much of her success to the guidance and support she’s received at UNCW. “The resources here – career counselors, academic advisors, and financial advisors – have set me up for success,” said Moore. “I feel confident about my future and the path I’m on."
To prospective donors, “Every student at UNCW has the potential to achieve great things. Your support makes it possible for students like me to stay focused on our goals and reach our full potential,” says Moore.
Moore is a student in the UNCW College of Health & Human Services (CHHS). Learn more about CHHS news, programs, events, and more.
For more information on how you can support scholarships like the Preyer Family Scholarship and help students like Lewis reach their full potential, visit the UNCW giving site.