Dr. Tara Blackshear, EdD in KIN alum and Associate Professor at Towson University, delivered the Praxis Lecture at the National Association for Kinesiology in Higher Education (NAHKE) conference in January. The lecture was titled, “The First: Trailblazing While ‘Talking Back’ to Ensure We Aren’t the Last – Dedicated to Anita J. Turner”. Dr. Blackshear’s lecture honored Anita J. Turner’s contributions to physical education and addressed the ongoing challenges Black women and other marginalized groups face when they are the first or only. The lecture explored leadership, empowerment, and the necessity of “talking back” or taking a stance against societal norms or injustices, emphasizing the importance of advocacy, resilience, and the power of voice. Additionally, the lecture highlighted the importance of learning from the past to create a more inclusive future, and to continue the trailblazing work of those like Anita J. Turner.
This was Dr. Blackshear’s first NAHKE conference, and she says it was an honor to be the 5th Praxis lecturer. Dr. Blackshear said it was fantastic and refreshing to be surrounded by her UNCG family as they were well-represented at the conference.
One the highlights of the conference for Dr. Blackshear was meeting with Dr. Camille O’Bryant, who delivered the first Praxis Lecture, after developing a relationship over Zoom. Furthermore, Dr. Blackshear enjoyed delivering the workshop with Dr. Brian Culp titled “Embracing Culture & Engaging in Anti-Racist (Physical) Education: A Crucial Step Towards and Equitable Future.” The workshop focused on effectively incorporating social justice materials into teaching, developing intentional strategies to improve the profession, and bringing culture into the physical education spaces. Additionally, Dr. Blackshear enjoyed a tour of Puerto Rico led by current EdD student, Taisha Hernández Zambrana.
Dr. Blackshear states the EdD in KIN has been very impactful in her career as it gave her a foundation for conducting research and wanting to make an impact with her work. Throughout her time at the conference, Dr. Blackshear enjoyed connecting with faculty, fellow EdD in KIN students and alumni, gaining new perspectives from workshops and speakers, and definitely plans to attend future NAHKE conferences.
Learn more about the EdD in KIN program at UNCG on our website .