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Lee Profs Honored for Contributions to Firefighter Health and Wellness

Cleveland, TN (08/27/2026) — Lee University faculty members Dr. Mike Iosia and Dr. Racheal Lawler were honored by the City of Cleveland and Cleveland Fire Department during the Aug. 24 Cleveland City Council session. Both received Civilian Awards in recognition of their commitment to the health, fitness, and wellness of Cleveland firefighters.

Iosia, professor of exercise physiology, and Lawler, associate professor of athletic training, have worked with the Cleveland Fire Department for nearly a decade, applying their expertise to help firefighters improve their physical preparedness, resilience, and long-term health.

Cleveland Fire Chief Chris Bates recognized Iosia and Lawler for their contributions and the positive impact their work has had on the department.

"Dr. Iosia and Dr. Lawler are incredible individuals who have voluntarily given their time, knowledge, and expertise for our well-being," said Bates. "Their contribution reflects a genuine commitment to the safety, performance, and success of our members and the organization as a whole."

Iosia has worked with the department on firefighter fitness initiatives, analyzing data, conducting physical assessments, and examining physical standards necessary for firefighters to perform their duties effectively.

"It is a privilege to serve those who serve everyone in our community," said Iosia. "I'm thankful for the relationship we have with CFD, which has provided equally meaningful undergraduate research opportunities for our students."

Lawler has focused on in-depth body composition analysis and individualized health recommendations for department personnel. Bates said her work has contributed to improvements in firefighters' overall conditioning, preparedness, and injury prevention.

"I am honored to receive this award and deeply appreciative of the respect and regard the entire Cleveland Fire Department has shown me each time I walk into one of the city's fire halls," said Lawler. "I am grateful to the CFD for the trust they have placed in me over the years and for their willingness to work with me and adapt during training drills to help improve the overall well-being and readiness of their firefighters. We have worked hard together as a team to strengthen and enhance the CFD."

The Civilian Award is presented to individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary courage and selflessness in supporting emergency services or directly contributing to the safety and well-being of others.

"I'm so proud of this and so many other partnerships between Lee University and the City of Cleveland," said Dr. Bill Estes, dean of the Helen DeVos College of Education and Cleveland City Council member. "This has been a long-term relationship that has yielded numerous safety and financial benefits to the city at no cost. I'm super proud to be Mike and Racheal's colleague."

Bates said the faculty members' contributions have had a lasting impact on the Cleveland Fire Department, both operationally and in the area of firefighter wellness.

"Dr. Iosia and Dr. Lawler have helped our firefighters better understand their physical condition and provided them with the building blocks needed to improve performance, resilience, and long-term health," said Bates. "We are grateful for the years of service they have given to the Cleveland Fire Department."

Media Attachments

Cleveland Fire Chief Chris Bates is pictured with Lee University faculty members Dr. Racheal Lawler and Dr. Mike Iosia following the presentation of Civilian Awards recognizing their contributions to the health and well-being of Cleveland firefighters. Also pictured are members of the Cleveland Fire Department, Cleveland City Council, and Mayor Kevin Brooks.

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