In January, twenty-five of UNCG’s students, alumni, and faculty attended the 2025 National Association for Kinesiology in Higher Education (NAKHE) Conference in Puerto Rico as presenters, panelists, awardees, and more. It was like a UNCG Kinesiology family reunion. In addition to time at the conference, there was time to explore the island and enjoy the local food and traditions – we even had our own hometown tour guide (thanks, Taisha).
Hear from current students and alumni about their experience at the conference:
- Amanda Aguilar, 2017 EdD Cohort, 2021 Alum
During the NAHKE conference, Amanda participated in three presentations. Amanda says presenting with fellow UNCG alumni, faculty, and students was a rewarding experience, and that “it is always special to share your research and accomplishments with a group that you share a bond with.” She credits Drs. Brown and Gill for doing an amazing job of connecting everyone from various programs, years, and roles. Amanda appreciates that the NAHKE conference allows her to reconnect yearly with mentors, colleagues, and friends in a fun, relaxing yet professional setting. Amanda looks forward to attending the conference every year, and leaves feeling energized and ready to start a new semester.
- Jason Suby, 2015 EdD Cohort, 2019 Alum
Jason acknowledges that his attendance at the NAHKE conference has significantly contributed to his professional development in a multitude of ways. He notes that the diverse range of presentations and workshops have exposed him to cutting-edge research and innovative teaching practices in Kinesiology which has broadened his understanding of the field and provided new ideas to implement in his work. The NAHKE conference offers invaluable networking opportunities and allows attendees to connect with leading experts, researchers, and educators. Additionally, Jason says his attendance at the conference has enhanced his professional skills by encouraging him to engage in discussions, present his work, and critically evaluate the research of others. Jason states that “this experience has undoubtedly strengthened my ability to contribute meaningfully to the field of kinesiology.”
- Mona Flynn, 2020 EdD Cohort, 2024 Alum
As a first-time NAKHE attendee, Mona says the conference is an invaluable as it offers more than just a platform to showcase research – it fosters leadership development and forward-thinking approaches in Kinesiology. Mona, a recent graduate of the EdD in KIN program, had the opportunity to serve on a panel with her professors and fellow alumni, as well as present her research poster. These experiences reinforced the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and lifelong engagement in the field. Mona states the keynote presentations highlighted the importance of developing “inclusive” practices, both personally and professionally. She says, “the conference exemplified how higher education in kinesiology can shape not only scholarly contributions but also visionary leaders who will drive the profession forward.” During her time at the conference, Mona enjoyed connecting with her EdD KIN mentor, Pam Brown, and a tour of the warmth and beauty of the island led by Taisha Hernández Zambrana, a member of the 2024 Cohort.
- Taisha Hernández Zambrana, 2024 EdD Cohort
A current EdD in KIN student and first-time NAHKE attendee, Taisha states the conference was the most invaluable professional experience she has ever had. She was amazed by the willingness of many scholars to share their knowledge and experience with humility. Taisha says she is “grateful for every interaction and relationship built with scholars who deeply exemplify leadership, commitment, and genuine passion for the field of Kinesiology.” As a presenter alongside UNCG alumni and faculty, Taisha says it was a rewarding experience and felt the support and mentorship from each person. The conference helped Taisha to develop new ideas and research ideas for her dissertation. Taisha is grateful that this experience was in her homeland of Puerto Rico, and loved the opportunity to share her island, language, and culture with the many conference attendees.
Members of the UNCG Kinesiology family in attendance include Amanda, Jason, Mona, Taisha, Tara, Jerono, DeAnne, David, Craig, Heather, Callie, Ashley, Lindsey, Amy, Beverly, Susan, Teri, Marcus, Enid, Mairym, Erin, Jackie, Adam, Diane, and Pam. We look forward to seeing everyone again at next year’s NAKHE Conference in Nashville, TN.
Learn more about the EdD in KIN program at UNCG on our website .