Dr. Jerono Rotich Inducted as the 60th NAHKE Fellow
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 .
Our brains require stimulation to remain sharp. Cognitive fitness (activities that stimulate and nourish the brain) may maintain and improve thinking, memory, and problem-solving skills. The best part? Keeping your mind active can be fun and rewarding! There are tons of engaging brain-boosting activities to strengthen cognitive abilities and support long-term mental well-being.
1. Challenge Your Brain with Games & Puzzles
Puzzles, word games, and brain-training apps may help enhance memory and problem-solving skills. Activities like Sudoku, crossword puzzles, and chess have been shown to support cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
2. Learn Something New
Lifelong learning is a key component of cognitive fitness. Whether it’s learning a new language, playing an instrument, or trying out a new hobby like painting or gardening, acquiring new skills stimulates neural connections.
3. Engage in Creative Activities
Creative expression activates the brain. Adding a creative activity, such as writing, drawing, crafting, playing music, or trying new recipes, may also reduce stress. Try some simple activities like adult coloring books or journaling to boost relaxation.
4. Stay Socially Connected
Interacting with others keeps the brain engaged and promote emotional well-being. Joining a club, attending community events, or simply talking on the phone with friends and family can support memory and critical thinking skills.
5. Prioritize Sleep & Nutrition
A well-rested and well-nourished functions more efficiently. Sleep plays an important role in problem-solving and mental clarity, so aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night. Additionally, eating nutrient-rich foods supports brain health. A diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids—found in foods like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds—helps protect brain cells.
Final Thoughts
Cognitive fitness helps keep your brain strong and adaptable through stimulating activities. By incorporating some simple, enjoyable activities into your daily routine, you can support cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Stay curious, stay engaged, and keep challenging your mind!
Dr. Kristi Johnson, an EdD in KIN alum, published her first book titled, ABC Dance and Move With Me. This educational book is designed for children aged 1-5 and aims to enhance the interplay between movement and literacy in early childhood education. The book teaches movement, celebrates diversity in dance, and sparks curiosity among young readers.
Kristi was inspired to write her book after a conversation with a former student who was searching for a coloring book featuring dancers of different ethnicities, and her daughter’s love of dance. Kristi’s motivation for this work lies in the recognition that many young dancers possess a limited understanding of dance and view ballet as the standard. The book introduces a diverse array of dance styles through the alphabet where each letter represents a dance term or movement and widens young readers’ appreciation of dance as a multifaceted art form and significant cultural expression. Additionally, the illustrations in the book depict characters from underrepresented communities and fosters a more inclusive understanding of dance by highlighting various movement forms (i.e., hip-hop, African dance, jazz, creative movement, etc.). Kristi believes that when children see characters who reflect their cultural backgrounds and experiences, it affirms their identities and enhances their ability to envision their own futures.
Throughout the process of bringing her vision to life, Kristi found that it felt like choreographing. She states, “as a dancer and choreographer, I’m always working with movement, shapes, and visual storytelling, and this felt no different.” A challenged faced during the writing process included choosing the right dance term for each letter of the alphabet as “dance is a language of movement, but in a picture book, that movement has to be captured in a single image.” While fully embracing the process and its associated challenges, Kristi found the popular saying “don’t judge a book by its cover” to not be true as people absolutely judge books by their covers; her research found that the book cover is crucial for catching a reader’s attention whether they are in the bookstore or scrolling online.
As she reflects on the publication of her book, Kristi states it “feels surreal to go from an idea, a simple seed of inspiration to holding a fully realized picture book in my hands.” She is most proud of allowing herself to follow her instincts. Kristi hopes that the representation of the characters will help children to cultivate empathy, challenge prevailing stereotypes, and nurture an appreciation for varying perspectives.
Since the book has been published, Kristi has received incredible feedback. The most unexpected and rewarding pieces of feedback came from a colleague who mentioned that elementary dance teachers in public schools are interested in using the book as an educational resource in their classrooms. In addition to being in bookstores and at dance events, Kristi recognizes the book’s potential as a teaching tool in schools to bridge the gap between dance and literacy. Another heartfelt moment was delivered from a former student and mom, whose child asked, “Is that me?” upon seeing the book for the first time. The moment highlighted that every word and image in the book becomes a part of the child’s story and opens a world of possibilities for the child to imagine herself as a ballerina, a ballroom dancer, an African dancer, or someone who embraces movement in her life, which was one of Kristi’s goals when writing the book. Kristi is excited for what the future holds.
We are so proud of our alumna and NC Central University Director of Dance, Dr. Kristi Johnson, for making her dream a reality.
People may have several barriers to exercising. Lack of time, lack of facilities, sometimes lack of energy and motivation. But with music, people feel like, ‘This is cool.’ They feel the pump of the music.
Bryan Montero Herrera, Kinesiology Sport and Exercise Psychology doctoral student
Kinesiology student interns with Las Vegas Raiders
Posted on February 14, 2025
I’ve wanted to be a mental health professional since I was about 13 or 14 years old. When I heard about sport psychology, and I knew I could blend the worlds of mental health and sports, I knew that was going to be for me.
Desmond Moore, master’s student in the Applied Sport Psychology program
Department of Kinesiology Receives Inclusive Excellence Award
Posted on February 12, 2025
The UNCG Department of Kinesiology was recently recognized by the American Kinesiology Association at its annual leadership workshop in California. The department was awarded the 2025 Inclusive Excellence Award. Attending the conference for UNCG were (right to left): Dr. Scott Ross, Dr. Carl Mattacola, Dr. Erin Reifsteck, Dr. DeAnne Brooks and Dr. Michael Hemphill. Also attending were UNCG alums Dr. Jerono Rotich and Dr. Lindsay Nanney.
The award recognizes academic units that promote an understanding of diversity and inclusion; develop innovative programs, initiatives or strategies to enhance diversity and inclusion; have a sustained commitment to developing diversity and inclusion in kinesiology; and demonstrate support of historically underrepresented and/or marginalized individuals.
Kinesiology Alum Ensures the Chiefs are Ready for the Big Game
Posted on February 04, 2025
While much of the country is focused on whether the Kansas City Chiefs or the Philadelphia Eagles will win the Super Bowl, Dr. Shaun Tyrance is focused on the Chiefs’ mental health, a job he enjoys.
Tyrance, who graduated from UNCG in 2003 with a master’s degree from the Sport and Exercise Psychology program, is the Vice President of Player Services and Assessment for the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs. In this role, he is responsible for the mental health and wellbeing of the organization. He’s tasked with supporting the mental health for all players, coaches, and staff of the organization, so the team can perform at its best.
He was the Chiefs’ first in-house clinician, and the second in the NFL, before the position was mandated by the League. A few years ago, Tyrance hired a second person to assist him in focusing on the wellness of the Chiefs’ business staff, so he can focus on the organization’s players and coaches.
(The Chiefs) were on the forefront to integrating mental health in the organization, and hopefully I’ve helped a little bit with our success, I think I’m one of the most integrated resources in professional sports. Our head coach, GM (general manager), owner and president have all bought into this.
Dr. Shaun Tyrance
Tyrance said at some point in the season, every player will struggle with something, and his position helps the team succeed.
“I work on getting them to prepare on a high-level all year long. This includes getting good sleep, taking care of the body, and practicing mindfulness,” Tyrance said. “I help everyone figure out their individual strengths and weaknesses and put a plan together to help them perform at an optimal level.”
He said the plan may include visualization, relaxation techniques, or other practices so the mind and body are calm. It’s also important to have recovery during the week, so the person is ready on game day.
The techniques don’t change based on the time of year — even if the team is getting ready for its third Super Bowl in three years.
“We don’t change what we do. We try to be consistent, no matter the game. There’s no more emphasis or preparation on any game,” Tyrance said. “It takes a certain amount of work to win a game, and I think (being consistent) helps us put us in the right mental state. If we did something different, it would be more detrimental.”
Tyrance said he has been around some teams that may watch more game film or have more meetings prior to certain games, which could cause a reaction in the players. By the Chiefs keeping things the same throughout the year, it allows the players and coaches to remain focused for the Super Bowl.
And while some Chiefs players receive more media attention throughout the year than others, Tyrance said it is the lesser-known players who may experience more distractions during big games.
They may get more requests from their local media outlets or others who know them, We have a great PR (public relations) team to help them.
Dr. Shaun Tyrance
Tyrance said it also helps that the team has been to the Super Bowl recently, so staff, coaches and players know what to expect.
Some of the advice he gives members of the Chiefs’ organization are things he would recommend for the average person:
Get the proper amount of good quality sleep;
Get out and move your body daily; and
Have good social support.
“Having friends and family to lean on and be in your corner is very important,” Tyrance said. “When you have a struggle, it can be isolating. It’s key to talk to other people to know you’re not alone.”
He said his profession is important for everyone.
“Mental health is something we all have. Some days we’re thriving, and some days we may be in crisis,” Tyrance said. “I tell everyone to find a therapist and build that into your mental health plan. We can all benefit from having someone to talk to year-round. Like going to an acupuncturist, or getting a massage, or getting exercise, we need to be proactive about our mental health.”
He also tells the team to be intentional with their free time. NFL teams will spend dozens of hours a week getting ready for games. This includes holidays and time away from important family events.
“When you get a moment to get away, take it. If you have an hour and you spend it scrolling on Facebook or Instagram instead of resting and taking time for yourself, it can impact your recovery,” Tyrance said. “A lot of times we don’t take full advantage of the time, so it doesn’t feel like a break.”
-Dr. Shaun Tyrance earned his master’s degree in Exercise and Sport Science from UNCG. In addition, he also earned a Master of Education from N.C. State University and his Ph.D. from UNC Charlotte.
Aslynn Halvorson-Weaver, a 2024 EdD in KIN graduate, started a new position as an Assistant Professor of Practice at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville for Fall 2024. As a Professor of Practice, she serves the Department of Kinesiology, Recreation, and Sports Studies (KRSS) as a teaching faculty in addition to serving on a variety of community-focused committees and working on curriculum and course development for undergraduate and graduate level courses.
Halvorson-Weaver returns to UTK, where she completed her BSEd and MS in Kinesiology while competing on the track team as a Lady Vol from 2009-2014. Previously, Halvorson-Weaver served as an Instructor of Kinesiology at Anderson University and Assistant Professor and Program Coordinator for Exercise Science and Human Performance at Newberry College.
Earning her EdD in Kinesiology at UNC Greensboro has put Halvorson-Weaver in a unique position within her department where she is well equipped with skills and knowledge in course and curriculum development.
UNCG Family Reunites at NC SHAPE Convention: Celebrating Connections and Achievements
Posted on February 03, 2025
In December 2024, the UNCG family—past, present, and future—came together at the North Carolina Society for Health and Physical Education (NC SHAPE) convention in Winston-Salem. This event not only showcased the latest in professional development but also served as a meaningful opportunity for alumni, students, and faculty to reconnect and build new relationships within the field of health and physical education.
The convention kicked off with a prestigious awards ceremony, where Dr. Pam Brown was honored with a Linda Harrill Rudisill Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr. Brown’s recognition highlighted years of dedication and exceptional contributions to the field, a moment of pride for the entire UNCG community. Other award recipients include Dr. Susan Edkins for College/University Health Education Teacher of the Year, and Mandy Davis for Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year. Additionally, there were many UNCG alum and current students who served as presenters.
Members of the UNCG family gathered for lunch, continuing their conversations and reflecting on the rewarding professional development sessions they had attended. It was an opportunity to discuss new ideas, share experiences, and strengthen the bonds between individuals who have been part of the university community over the years.
The theme of the convention—“Find Your People”—resonated deeply with attendees. As they mingled, learned, and celebrated achievements, the experience proved to be a reminder of how important these connections are, not just professionally, but personally. The friendships and professional relationships formed at UNCG and at events like NC SHAPE are truly irreplaceable, creating a lasting network of support, mentorship, and inspiration.
Looking ahead, the memories made at the 2024 NC SHAPE convention will serve as a reminder of the strength and importance of community within the UNCG family. As the convention’s theme suggested, finding your people is not just about the sessions attended or the knowledge gained, but about the connections that last a lifetime.
It was great seeing so many of our UNCG people, including Sherry, Mandy, Kymm, Tiffani, Teri, Bev, Susan, Melinda, Daniel, Barrett, Jason, Meredith, Ralph, Leanne, Carmyn, Judy, Nicole, and more.
Visit NC SHAPE if you are interested in learning more about the organization.
Check out our website to learn more about the EdD in KIN program at UNCG.
Research studies play a critical role in advancing science and improving lives. Yet, many people are unaware of how impactful their participation can be or why they should get involved. If you’ve ever considered joining a research study but weren’t sure whether it’s the right choice, here are some compelling reasons to dive in.
1. Make a Difference. When you participate in a research study, you contribute to discoveries that can benefit society. Whether it’s medical research, social sciences, or environmental studies, your involvement helps scientists answer important questions. For example, studies in the UNCG Kinesiology Department explore ways to improve physical performance, develop rehabilitation techniques, and prevent injuries; clinical trials often lead to new treatments; and psychological studies can inform policies that enhance mental health support.
2. Access to Cutting-Edge Innovations. Research studies often give participants access to new technologies, treatments, or programs before they become widely available. This can be especially beneficial if you’re managing a specific health condition or want to improve lifestyle habits. By participating, you not only receive expert care but also gain insights into the latest advancements.
3. Be Part of History. Every major breakthrough—from heart transplants to space exploration—has depended on people willing to participate in research. By joining a study, you’re contributing to knowledge that could change the world. Whether it’s a new athletic training method or a groundbreaking approach to managing chronic pain, imagine telling future generations, “I helped make that discovery possible.”
4. Learn About Yourself. Many research studies provide participants with valuable information about their health, habits, or preferences. For instance, fitness studies could give you a clearer picture of your physical capabilities, while studies exploring cognition might reveal strategies for improving memory.
5. Financial or Other Incentives. Some research studies offer compensation for your time and effort, which can be a nice bonus. This might include monetary rewards, gift cards, or even free medical assessments and exercise programs. While this shouldn’t be the only reason to participate, it’s certainly a helpful perk.
6. It’s Easier Than You Think. Participating in a research study doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated. Many studies involve simple surveys, interviews, or non-invasive procedures. You can commit to a 12-month exercise program or choose a study with only surveys to complete on your own time.
7. Help Underrepresented Groups. Certain populations are often underrepresented in research, which can lead to disparities in healthcare and policy decisions. By participating, especially if you belong to an underrepresented group, you ensure that research findings are more inclusive and equitable.
If you’re interested in participating, start by looking for opportunities at local universities, hospitals, or research institutions. The UNCG Kinesiology Department has several studies currently enrolling participants. Also, websites like ClinicalTrials.gov or ResearchMatch.org can help you find studies that align with your interests or health conditions. Before you join, you’ll be fully informed about the study’s purpose, procedures, and any potential risks, so you can make a confident decision.
Participating in a research study is a powerful way to contribute to science, support innovation, and even gain personal benefits. Your involvement could lead to life-changing discoveries—for you, your loved ones, and generations to come. So why not take the first step today?
