The 2021 Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP) Diversity in Sport Conference was hosted virtually by UNC Greensboro April 16th-17th, 2021. In its fifth year, the AASP Diversity in Sport Regional Conference was a student-driven event targeting traditionally underrepresented undergraduate and graduate students (e.g. students of color, LGBTIQ students, students with disabilities) and early career professionals interested in careers in applied sport, exercise, and performance psychology. Through a variety of discussions, presentations, and networking opportunities, the conference provided a space for open dialogue around diversity and social justice issues in applied sport and exercise psychology settings. The event is held annually at a historically black college and university (HBCU) or minority and Hispanic serving institution (MSIs and HSIs). We at UNC Greensboro were proud to be chosen to host the event (virtually) this year.
The conference had many connections to the EdD in KIN program. The conference planning committee included several Ed.D. faculty – Dr. Pam Brown, Dr. Diane Gill, Dr. Erin Reifsteck, & Dr. DeAnne Brooks. Long-time EdD in KIN GA Shelby Anderson was the conference co-coordinator. Several Ed.D. students were also able to participate in the event as attendees and presenters. Andrew Cage authored an excellent panel titled “Diversity and Inclusion in Sports Medicine.” Additionally, former Ed.D. in KIN GA, Dr. Kimberly Fasczewski who is now a professor at Appalachian State was a co-author on two presentations with current students. Overall, the Ed.D. in KIN program was well-represented at the event.
Shelby shared, “We feel the conference ended up being a huge success. We were able to have 25+ synchronous and asynchronous presentations throughout the two day event. Having synchronous sessions allowed for a ton of attendee and presenter engagement. Our main goal of providing a space for students to connect and share their work surrounding diversity in sport was accomplished.”