Since 1993, the Boyd Epley Award for NSCA Lifetime Contributions has honored individuals who have exhibited historical impact, achievements and dedication to the National Strength and Conditioning Association over the course of their careers.
Receiving this honor in 2026 is John Graham, MS, CSCS,*D, RSCC*E, FNSCA, the Senior Network Administrator for Lifestyle Health & Wellness, Fitness & Sports Performance at St. Luke’s University Health Network.
Named after Boyd Epley, NSCA’s founder, this award is considered the most prestigious honor an NSCA Member can achieve.
“John personifies St. Luke’s commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of the communities we serve,” St. Luke’s Physician Group President Jared King said. “He has used his deep expertise in strength, conditioning and wellness to make a meaningful difference in the lives of community members, patients and athletes across our region, helping develop programs that bring St. Luke’s mission to life and support people at every stage of their fitness and health journey.”
Graham is pursuing his Doctorate of Health Sciences at East Stroudsburg University and has served as an adjunct professor at multiple colleges and universities.
His service to the NSCA spans governance, certification, education and publication. He was a member of the NSCA Board of Directors from 2001 to 2003, including as Vice President in 2002 and Secretary/Treasurer in 2003. He also contributed through the NSCA Certification Committee from 2010 to 2017, chairing it from 2012 to 2017, and the Conference and Education Committee, which he chaired from 2004 to 2009. In NSCA publications, Graham was editor of the Exercise Technique Column in the Strength and Conditioning Journal (SCJ) from 2000 to 2011, has served as an associate editor for the SCJ since 2008 and received the SCJ Editorial Excellence Award in 2000.
Beyond his NSCA service, Graham has authored or contributed to peer-reviewed and lay publications and presented on strength and conditioning, chronic disease and disability management, and health, fitness and metabolic training. He also coordinates, designs and implements exercise prescriptions for athletes, fitness populations and individuals with chronic conditions and disorders. His work has earned recognition from organizations and institutions including the American Council on Exercise, Medical Fitness Association, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, business publications and state government bodies.
