Posted on March 19, 2025
Being able to bring clinical and personal experiences to the classroom, the students respond to that.
Dr. Aaron Terranova, Kinesiology professor and director of UNCG’s MSAT program
Posted on March 18, 2025
My approach to undergraduate research and teaching heavily emphasizes learning while prioritizing inclusion. It is important to me that all undergraduate students become comfortable engaging with scientific research because, as future health professionals, they will need to be able to review and evaluate the literature to inform their own evidence-based practice.
Dr. Jaclyn Maher, Kinesiology professor
Posted on March 03, 2025
On February 8, the EdD in KIN partnered with the HHS Alumni Association for a basketball social at the First Horizon Coliseum, formerly the Greensboro Coliseum. Students, alumni, and family members were able to connect and network during the event. The time was spent enjoying food, fun, and fellowship as students and alumni helped cheer the UNCG men’s basketball team to a 74 – 70 victory against Western Carolina.
Learn more about the EdD in KIN program at UNCG on our website .
Posted on February 27, 2025
At the American Kinesiology Association’s (AKA) 18th Annual Leadership Workshop in Newport Beach California, Drs. DeAnne Brooks, Michael Hemphill, and Erin Reifsteck received the AKA Inclusive Excellence Award on behalf of the Department of Kinesiology at UNCG.
The AKA Inclusive Excellence Award is based on an organization’s commitment to inclusive excellence by promoting an understanding of diversity and inclusion, developing innovation programs and initiatives, sustaining a commitment to develop diversity and inclusion, and demonstrating support of underrepresented and/or marginalized individuals.
The Department of Kinesiology at UNCG was unanimously selected because it “stands as a beacon of excellence in higher education, demonstrating exceptional leadership in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion through innovative programming, distinguished scholarship, and impactful community engagement.” The AKA Diversity, Excellence, and Inclusion Committee highlighted the department’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment is found in the academic initiatives, efforts to transform the campus community and the field of Kinesiology, and that the department’s comprehensive approach “serves as an exemplary model for academic units across higher education.” Dr. Brooks states that she is “really happy that we were a part of a department that has goals for inclusive excellence.”
Furthermore, Drs. Brooks and Reifsteck were inducted into the AKA Leadership Institute Class of 2026 – Cohort 7 during the AKA Leadership Workshop. The Leadership Institute is designed to help individuals advance their careers and continue to develop professionally in the field of Kinesiology. Through their experiences and mentorship, Drs. Brooks and Reifsteck hope to add value to UNCG in their current roles and in the future.
Learn more about the EdD in KIN program at UNCG on our website .
Posted on February 25, 2025
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:
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 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.”
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.
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 .
Posted on February 28, 2025
We have a prototype and are seeking funding to develop a more commercial-ready model, which would connect to a computer to measure and graph the results of the laxity tests.
Dr. Sandra Shultz, Kinesiology professor and Director of the Center for Women’s Health and Wellness
Posted on February 18, 2025
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 .
Posted on February 24, 2025
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. It affects memory, thinking, and daily functioning. A key feature of this disease is the buildup of plaques and tangles in the brain, which interfere with normal brain function. But what exactly are these plaques and tangles, and why do they matter?
What Are Plaques?
Beta-amyloid is a protein found in the fatty membrane surrounding nerve cells. In a healthy brain, beta-amyloid is cleared away regularly, but in Alzheimer’s disease, it accumulates and forms sticky plaques. These plaques build up between nerve cells in the brain and disrupt communication between cells.
What Are Tangles?
Tau is a protein found in the brain that helps transport nutrients along pathways within brain cells. In a healthy brain, tau helps keep the pathways straight, but in Alzheimer’s disease, tau clumps into twisted strands, forming tangles. These tangles cause nutrients to no longer move through the pathway which leads to cell death and disintegrating pathways.
How Do Plaques and Tangles Affect the Brain?
Plaques and tangles block communication between brain cells and cause brain cells to die. In the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, plaques and tangles may not cause detectable symptoms of memory loss. In mild to moderate stages, they cause memory loss, confusion, difficulty with problem-solving, and personality changes. As more plaques and tangles accumulate, symptoms worsen.
Can We Prevent Plaques and Tangles?
While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, research suggests that lifestyle changes may help reduce the risk cognitive decline. These lifestyle changes include keeping the brain active (e.g., puzzles), following a brain-healthy diet (e.g., fruits and vegetables), interacting with others, and managing health conditions (e.g., controlling blood pressure).
Posted on February 17, 2025
During the 2025 National Association for Kinesiology in Higher Education (NAKHE) Conference, Dr. DeAnne Brooks was named Outstanding Reviewer for the International Journal of Kinesiology in Higher Education. Dr. Brooks states that “it was a surprise and an honor” and that when giving feedback on articles she “tries to be kind and offer feedback that people can use to make their manuscript stronger.”
One of the highlights of the conference for Dr. Brooks was going on a tour of Old San Juan which was led by current Ed.D. student, Taisha Hernández Zambrana. The tour consisted of the history of the buildings, meaning behind the different flags, politics, education system, and much more.
As she has attended the NAHKE conference for the past six years, Dr. Brooks encourages anyone who is interested to go as it is a smaller conference which allows attendees to network and get to know each other in an intimate setting, and recommends the conference for those with several different interests in kinesiology and want to develop their leadership and teaching practices in the discipline.
Learn more about the EdD in KIN program at UNCG on our website .
Posted on February 17, 2025
In January, Dr. Jerono Rotich, the UNCG 2024 HHS Distinguished Alumni Awardee, was inducted as the 60th NAHKE Fellow during the National Association for Kinesiology in Higher Education (NAKHE) Conference. Dr. Rotich is the Associate Dean for Organizational Climate, Inclusion, and Belonging Professor at Indiana University.
For Dr. Rotich, the NAHKE Conference was an exciting and unforgettable experience. The event provided her the opportunity to connect with faculty and students from various institutions and those from her alma mater, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG). She states that “it was incredible to spend time with my former professor, Dr. Gill, and current faculty members, Drs. Brown and Brooks, along with current students and fellow alums”.
The highlight of the conference for Dr. Rotich was being inducted as NAKHE Faculty Fellow #60. A NAHKE Fellow is an acknowledged leader in the field of kinesiology who has added distinction of providing outstanding service to NAHKE through a variety of contributions. These contributions include scholarly productivity, serving on committees, contributing to publications, and holding senior leadership positions. Dr. Rotich states she is “incredibly grateful for this honor and excited to continue advancing our discipline” as the prestigious recognition underscores her unwavering commitment and significant contributions to NAKHE and the field of Kinesiology. This recognition comes shortly after receiving the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award from the UNCG School of Health and Human Sciences for her contributions to teaching, scholarship, and leadership on both national and international stages.
After a memorable conference, Dr. Rotich knows that the connections made, and knowledge gained will have a lasting impact on her career and contributions to the field of Kinesiology.
Learn more about the EdD in KIN program at UNCG on our website .
