How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
15 years

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
To learn more about the profession and to get professional development hours. I received a wealth of knowledge (that I use in my lessons and to help develop a strong program) and made numerous professional connections.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
The numerous ASAHPERD board members and teachers that I've met while being associated with ASAHPERD. I can't honestly name these people because there are so many that have helped me through the years!

Why did you choose a career related to health and physical literacy?:
I've always enjoyed playing sports as a child and thought this profession was right for me. I'm able to incorporate math, geography and reading into my daily lessons instead of just focus on a game or sport. I can help the students understand the importance of these subjects and how they relate to a sport and living a healthy lifestyle.

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
I received a wealth of knowledge (that I use in my lessons and to help develop a strong program) and made numerous professional connections. We have such a strong group of professionals in our organization that are willing to provide guidance and help. Being a member is the best thing that I've done as a PE Teacher. I learn so many new games, ideas and teaching strategies when I attend conferences. I look forward to collaborating with my peers so that I can make improvements in my my teaching style and my school.

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This organization has given me the knowledge and confidence to make sure that Physical Education is viewed as an important part of education.

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
20 years

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
Belonging to and contributing to professional organizations—especially at the grassroots level—is vital for personal and professional growth. During my undergraduate PETE studies at Samford University, our department chair, Dr. Avalee Willoughby, ensured that all pre-service teachers joined and actively participated in our state organization. Many years later, as I returned to graduate school to re-enter the teaching profession, I rejoined ASAHPERD. I was eager to be part of an active and influential group dedicated to advancing health and physical literacy across our state.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work with exceptional students and colleagues who have shaped me into the educator I am today. Among them, Dr. Matt Curtner-Smith stands out as an instrumental influence. Early in my graduate studies, he entrusted me with opportunities to supervise undergraduates in field experiences and internships. His guidance profoundly shaped my supervisory practices, teaching me the importance of balancing constructive feedback with positive reinforcement. Moreover, his mentorship carried me through the entire journey of earning my terminal degree—a milestone that allows me to teach and mentor future physical educators. I will always be grateful for his support and leadership.

Why did you choose a career related to health and physical literacy?:
My love for teaching, playing, coaching, and officiating made this career path an enjoyable choice. However, it was during graduate school that my understanding of physical education was transformed. I was introduced to models-based instruction, which fundamentally shifted my perspective on what physical education could and should be. This approach redefined my teaching methods and strengthened my commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity to learn fundamental skills—fostering a lifelong desire to stay active. Reinvigorating physical education at all levels remains a key goal of mine.

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
ASAHPERD membership has been invaluable in enhancing my teaching practices through professional development. It has connected me with like-minded educators and professionals, fostering friendships and collaborations that span higher education and K-12 schools. I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to learn from and share insights with those dedicated to promoting health and physical literacy in Alabama. These experiences have enriched my personal and professional life in immeasurable ways.

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
Joining ASAHPERD offers countless benefits. It aligns you with a professional organization that values health and physical literacy, provides avenues for professional growth, and recognizes impactful contributions in the field. It also creates opportunities for students—both graduate and undergraduate—to share their research and practical experiences. Perhaps most importantly, ASAHPERD gives its members a platform to influence state policies and practices, ensuring a brighter future for health and physical education in Alabama.

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
6 years

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
I love being able to network with other professionals in the field, as well as the excellent conferences.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
Both of my grandfathers taught me how to work hard. Professionally, I have been inspired by GASAHPERD educators Butch Whiteaker and Dustin Morris, and ASAHPERD educators Victor Crowell and David Powell.

Why did you choose a career related to health and physical literacy?:
I've always been a coach at heart, even when I was playing youth sports. I love to see the light go on for a student when they finally "get it." I love to be able to tell them I am proud of them.

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
Personally, I have gotten to know some really awesome teachers and people at conferences. Professionally, I have learned so many great activities, strategies, and even curriculums from not only the conferences, but also the journal.

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
So many reasons. ASAHPERD is a group in which you will fit in no matter your background. It is a way to improve your career no matter how experienced, strong or decorated it may already be. We are always learning and sharing.

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
10 years

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
I joined ASAHPERD because it is a great way to network and collaborate with peers, access resources for professional development, stay updated on best practices, advocate for quality health and physical education programs, and to attend the conference to learn new activities/games.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
Throughout my career as a physical education teacher, I have been fortunate to be inspired by several remarkable individuals who have shaped my passion for teaching. One of my most significant influences is my professor, Mr. Steven Knott from Old Dominion University. His dedication to our physical education program was evident, and he poured his heart into our learning experiences. Mr. Knott equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively utilize what I learned in the classroom. Another inspirational figure in my journey has been Coach Porter-Harris. Her passion for physical education is contagious, and she has shown me the importance of enthusiasm and energy in teaching. Her commitment to fostering a love for movement in her students has left a lasting impression on me. Additionally, Dr. Sherri Brock from Auburn University has encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone and embrace new teaching models. Her support has inspired me to continually evolve as an educator and explore innovative approaches to engage my students.I also want to acknowledge my current Physical Education team, which includes John Edgar, Misty Spratlin, Grace Banks, and Rhonda Ward. They are absolutely amazing, a huge part of our day to day program, and I could not do it without them. They are always coming up with new games and activities. Collaborating with such a creative and dedicated department has made my career a wonderful experience and has allowed our team to grow as educators.These mentors and my incredible team have played a crucial role in my development as a teacher, and I am grateful for their guidance and inspiration.

Why did you choose a career related to health and physical literacy?:
I chose a career in Health and Physical Literacy because I believe in the crucial impact that physical education and health education can have on individuals and communities. From a young age, I recognized the importance of physical activity and wellness in leading a fulfilling life. I wanted to inspire others to embrace healthy lifestyles and develop a love for movement.

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
ASAHPERD membership has enriched my career and personal growth, allowing me to continually evolve as an educator, while making lasting connections with like-minded professionals who are equally dedicated to promoting health and physical education. ASAHPERD has also given me an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone to present the last few years to share a variety of activities/games, strategies and management techniques we utilize in our P.E. program.

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
I would recommend ASAHPERD membership to others because it offers educators the chance to grow professionally, connect with others, advocate for our field, and access essential resources. I believe that being part of this association can significantly enrich our teaching experiences and make a lasting difference in the lives of our students.

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
Over 20+ years

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
I first became a member as an undergraduate student. We had a large student organization at the time and the conferences were anticipated highlights of the school year! It was encouraged by some of our faculty (Coach McBrayer and Dr. Tunell) as a great opportunity to network, build relationships, and grow professionally.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
I have had a number of faculty who have inspired me over the years but it started with the faculty at UNA during my time as an undergraduate student. Coach McBrayer, Dr. Tunell, Dr. Glidewell, and Dr. Livingston are just a few of the professionals who have been an inspiration to me and supported me during my early development. I worked in public health in Huntsville in my first full-time position and Dr. Robey, the County Health Officer at the time, was a great supporter and encourager as well.

Why did you choose a career related to health and physical literacy?:
It started with a personal enjoyment and interest in nutrition and exercise - I enjoy both and knew that good health habits were important and made a difference in my every day life. Once I decided to major in something I was passionate about and I new there was a need to help others by addressing behavior change, it became a wonderful career for over 40 years!

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
ASAHPERD has helped me grow professionally and build personal and professional relationships that are very dear to my heart. The organization has always been very inclusive, encouraging, and supportive of me, my students, and my colleagues. I have been blessed by many wonderful professionals and friends through the years. It has always been a great organization for my field!

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
ASAHPERD is a great group of professionals that will provide you a variety of ways to become involved and grow. Membership is a great return on your investment and you will be a better professional for it! I have been involved with the organization for many years and it has always been a positive and shining light - JOIN!

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
20 years!

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
I joined ASAHPERD to be able to meet more people all over the state in my specific field of Adapted Physical Education and gain new ideas. I also wanted to meet many physical educators all over the state that struggle with students with special needs and what they need help the most with in their gymnasiums. Every year I hear new challenges our Physical Education teachers face with students with disabilities in their classes and to be able to offer some help is very rewarding!

Who has inspired you in your career?:
My mother, Debbie Sullivan, greatly inspired me to become an Adapted Physical Education teacher. My mother taught APE for 31 years and she has been my mentor and biggest help through my years teaching. After many years of skipping school for Special Olympic events with my mother and shadowing her, I felt physical education was a great fit for me! She instilled in me a deep love for students with disabilities! She has taught me many behavior techniques and how to develop great connections with my students and once this is done the progress is huge!

Why did you choose a career related to health and physical literacy?:
I chose a career in health and physical literacy because it was something I have always been able to relate too. I have always been involved in sports and knew from a young age I wanted to be a teacher. Realizing I could be a Physical Education teacher combining two of my passions together it was a no brainer!

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
ASAHPERD has allowed me to meet other Adapted Physical Education teachers from all over the state. We have been able to share ideas and ask for help in many challenging situations. The amount of new things I have learned from various presenters at ASAHPERD Conferences has been extremely valuable to my career and students. When you put that many creative minds together you will definitely leave with new knowledge of activities and skills for your classes. ASAHPERD has also shown me year after year just how important PE is daily for our students.

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
I would recommend ASAHPERD Membership to others because it is the best time each year to collaborate and learn from other professionals. The conferences have such a big variety of sessions and you will always leave with new ideas and ways to make PE much better in your school!

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
23 years

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
It was promoted during my college classes and I saw the benefits of being involved with other colleagues.The conferences are a great way to refresh and get new ideas.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
My mother was a physical education teacher for 31 years. I always enjoyed her class and she made high school so FUN! I got to see behind the scenes of all that was involved and how it impacted students' lives.

Why did you choose a career related to health and physical literacy?:
I feel like the physical aspect of life is so important. It connects us to people and has so many positive health outcomes. I feel that educating others about these positive health benefits is so important and it just enriches our lives so much.

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
ASAHPERD has been a constant over my 23 year career. It has helped to develop my teaching strategies that have made me a better teacher. Personnally, I love the connections that it has provided with other educators, that without ASAHPERD I would have never known.

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
I would recommend ASAHPERD to everyone who is in physical education. It provides so much information to help grow and develop into a great teacher. Our profession can have a great affect on each student that steps foot into our gym/classroom. We have the power to enable them to love an active lifestyle.

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
11 years

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
Originally, I joined because of the recommendation from my college professors. I continue to be a member of ASAHPERD because of the professional development opportunities and the chance to network with other professionals in my field.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
There are so many amazing physical educators that I have gained knowledge and inspiration from over the years. The two that come to mind first will always be Mike Goodwin and Cathie Simpkins. I did my internship under them and they had an amazing program. Their ability to maximize student engagement inspired me then and still does today.

Why did you choose a career related to health and physical literacy?:
I chose this career because I believe that physical activity and health education are crucial for overall wellness and it’s so rewarding helping students find activities that promote a healthy and active lifestyle.

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
For me personally, it has connected me to so many other amazing professionals in the field. These relationships have helped me grow tremendously as an educator. Professionally, it has provided me with opportunities to not only share my knowledge with other professionals, but to collaborate and learn so much from so many different people.

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
I would recommend ASAHPERD because of the collaboration with other physical educators. Each year, I take away so many activities and ideas that I’m able to implement into my classroom. Being a member has provided me with an opportunity to connect with so many great teachers that inspire me to be my best each and every day for my students.

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
24 Years

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
Originally, my membership was encouraged as part of my university degree program. I continued my membership because of the support, collegial conversations, and the professional development that was offered.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
There are so many people that have impacted me throughout the years. Starting with Dr. Dunaway and Dr. Hester who inspired me throughout my college experience and continue to this day. Sandra Sims, Toni Leo, Susan Jackson, and Ginger Aaron-Brush were mentor teachers who I now count as colleagues and friends. Beth Uhlman, Laura Prior, and Ashley Belew continue to inspire me today as fellow teachers that strive to continue to positively impact student learning.

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
My ASAHPERD membership has provided me many opportunities for professional growth. Whether attending fall or spring conferences or having the opportunity to present, I always had a chance to learn and improve my instruction to better equip my students for their future. Personally, the friendships I developed help continue to push me to become a better teacher.

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
I would recommend membership to others because of the relationships you develop within the organization. There are so many members with great ideas that can help you grow and mature as a teacher. Being a member of ASAHPERD helps you meet these members who will challenge you to become a better teacher.

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
29 years

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
Our Professors at AUM told us about ASAHPERD. They explained some of the benefits of being a member and how the Conferences bring in teachers or other professionals to do sessions dealing with up-to-date teaching strategies that worked for them in their classroom /gym. In some cases, it is vital information that we need to know regarding the Alabama Standards.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
I have had a few Professors and a Teacher who taught me in High School who inspired me to become a teacher. In High School, it was Mrs. Tieken, my Math teacher. She had a lot of patience with me and understood how to teach someone who has ADHD. At AUM it was Dr. Jennifer Brown and Dr. Charlie Gibbons, they pushed me to be the best student I could be and gave me constructive criticism that guided me to be a better teacher when we were teaching our lessons.

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
My membership has given me many opportunities to learn and help make changes. As a former Board Member, I was able to brainstorm with other colleagues and help make opportunities available for teachers to benefit from the ASAHPERD Conferences. We were able to give some input on the current State Standards. I have made some lifelong friends as an ASAHPERD member by meeting people at the Conferences and also being part of the ASAHPERD Board.

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
Yes, I would recommend becoming a Member of ASAHPERD. Whenever I have had a student teacher observe my classes or an Intern, one of the first things I ask them is, "Are you a member of ASAHPERD?" If they aren't I talk to them about the benefits of being a member.

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
15 years

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
I joined ASAHPERD for several reasons. First, ASAHPERD is what Physical Education Teachers do! Secondly, I know this organization will be a big voice for US (PE Teachers) collectively. Finally, I joined because I wanted to attend the Conference in November to learn new things for the students I serve.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
I'm inspired every time the students face light up and the excitement in their screams when I tell them I have learned or either have a "new game" for them. The teacher that inspired me the most, I would say is Robin Litaker, who worked at Trace Crossing Elementary School and Ginger Aaron-Bush worked along side her as I did my Elementary Student Teacher Internship. I was amazed at their PE Program and that inspired me to want to be one of the best..

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
ASAHPERD has tremendously broadened my PE Program and I can't tell you how many physical education teachers that I have made connections with. There has never been a time I attended the Conference and was not able to bring so many new ideas and activities back into the PE Program. I have gained so much knowledge and growth from attending these conferences and being part of ASAHPERD. Personally, I'm thankful to be a part of this organization and community of physical educators!

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
I would recommend membership to others because ASAHPERD is our "voice" as physical education teachers. You will have a community of resources that will help get your physical education program to the next level. You will learn so many innovation and new ideas to implement into your PE Program while growing professionally. and helping the students you serve. You will be glad you did!

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
6 years

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
I love how ASAHPERD is a community of teacher leaders willing to advocate for their specialty.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
I am inspired daily by my students and their passion for PE. I love creating new and exciting experiences for them.

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
ASAHPERD has given me access to a multitude of resources that have helped me be successful as a PE teacher. Personally, it feels rewarding to be a part of a community that is making a difference in the lives of children.

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
Being a specialty area teacher can often feel isolating because PE teachers are frequently the only ones at their school; I would recommend membership to all PE teachers and join the community of passionate physical educators in Alabama.

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
15 years

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
I decided to join ASAHPERD because I went to a Fall conference. I soon realized I was a member of so much more. I have been able to gain so much information from leaders in the Physical Education field. This has allowed me to be a better teacher.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
I went back to school when I was 35 years old so my wife and two children were a big inspiration to me and giving me the encouragement I needed to be successful. My dad was a Physical Education teacher for 25 years at Brookwood High School in Tuscaloosa County. He was the baseball coach and coached other sports in his tenure. What inspired me the most about my dad was he always gave his best as a PE teacher and as a coach.His lesson plans were always so detailed and organized. He taught me to always be highly organized and to have a plan.

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
Being a member of ASAHPERD has been a very positive experience for me personally and every year I am challenged professionally to strive to do better for my students.

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
I would like to recommend ASAHPERD membership to others because it provides a support base for our profession. ASAHPERD is an advocate for Physical Education teachers and will always stand up for us. They always provide innovative ideas and games from professional presenters.

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
10 Years

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
I originally joined to attend a Fall conference. I was so encouraged by what I learned and the people that were involved in the organization that I decided it was an investment into my career to be a part of ASAHPERD. PROVERBS 27:7 Says, "As Iron sharpens Iron, so one person sharpens another", I truly believe that I am sharpened as an individual and a teacher by being involved. I want to be the best I can be and to do that I need to be around the best in my profession. That is what I have found as I have been a member of ASAHPERD.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
It has been teachers that I have seen go above and beyond for their students each and every year. Coach Carrie Beech who teaches at Spanish Fort Elementary, Coach Emily Pharez who is retired but still has a huge impact as a substitute teacher in our county, and Linda Hatchett who is retired also and taught in Mobile for years has been a huge inspiration to me as she walked me through implementing HEAL in my curriculum. These are just a few names. I can add so many more around our county and the state that pours their heart and soul into their profession and children daily.

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
I feel like ASAHPERD has preserved our profession and works tirelessly to make sure that the politicians and others around the State and country know how important our profession is for the health and education of children. Their Advocacy efforts go unseen by most but has made a tremendous impact on policies that impact our profession. Personally it has impacted me by making me a better teacher through accountability and fresh new ideas for the classes I teach.

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
Yes, It is a great way to meet new people, learn fresh new ideas and make an impact that goes farther than just your sphere of influence.

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
12 years

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
I joined so I could attend the conferences when I was in college.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
The success from so many PE professionals makes me strive to do better each day. I had a great mentor teacher when I completed my student teaching. Linda Hatchett had an amazing program at her elementary school. She shared all her wealth and knowledge of the program she created and I was able to run with it!

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
Without ASAHPERD I wouldn't be able to attend the annual conferences. I consider the conferences not only fun but educational. I am able to bring back the activities and games to my school and modify them to fit to our class sizes. ASAHPERD allows me to network with other professionals in my field.

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
In order to become a better educator it would be important to join ASAHPERD and take advantage of all the benefits of the group.

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
20+

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
I joined for the CEUs, but I soon realized the professional development and networking opportunities was a good fit for me. I have been able to network with other physical educators across the state while sharing resources and information I otherwise may not have received if I wasn't a member.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
The person who has inspired me to become more proficient in my career would be my colleague Coach Sharon Smith. Her dedication to the Physical Education Program at Glen Iris has inspired me and my love for what we do. She inspired me to see physical education differently and embrace the journey I were heading on. She has been the inspiration I needed to continue growing in this profession.

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
Personally I have made great connections and lifelong friendships with with professionals in my field. Creating these friendships has also grown my professional knowledge. I have had the chance to experience and learn things from these individuals that I can take back to my own school and make physical education more fun and effective.

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
I would recommend a membership to ASAHPERD, because it a great opportunity to connect with like minded educators in the state and continuously grow and improve the physical education practices.

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
I have been a member for over six years, two as a future professional and four years as a physical education teacher.

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
I was introduced to ASAHPERD as an undergraduate. I saw it as an opportunity to learn from experts in the physical education field and grow as a teacher.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
Dr. Sandra Sims has been a tremendous inspiration since I attended UAB. Her passion for physical education continues to motivate me. I often think of her throughout the school year when I write lessons and try new strategies. My former superintendent, Dr. Daniel Shakespeare, is another inspiration in my career. His enthusiasm for improving students’ quality of education is contagious. His work ethic and dedication inspire me to want to be a better teacher.

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
Being a member of ASAHPERD positively challenges me personally and professionally. Attending ASAPHERD conferences compels me to reflect on my “WHY”. Every time I participate, I leave feeling recharged and reminded of my calling.

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
I would recommend others to become members for the three main reasons. The first reason is the vast network of exceptional professionals. The second reason is the opportunities to share and gather innovative ideas and lessons. The third reason is the access to resources, grants, companies, and business partnerships to enhance their programs.

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
25 years ( I think)

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
I signed up so I could attend the summer workshop in Columbiana and then the Fall Conference in Birmingham. That's when I realized how much I could learn and how much fun I could have at conferences! I met so many fantastic physical educators and made such great friends that I just kept coming back for more!

Who has inspired you in your career?:
I am inspired daily by my students and fellow educators. But I will have to say the one teacher that started the flame for me to be a Physical Educator was Ms. JoVeal Turner, my elementary PE Teacher. She was the one I wanted to be like, the teacher I wanted to follow.

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
Through ASAHPERD I have formed some of the strongest bonds with my fellow physical educators. Through the network of educators in my own school system and throughout the state I was able to grow as an educator. Because of the knowledge shared I became a better teacher for my students.

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
I would recommend membership in ASAHPERD to anyone that is in the Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance fields. We are not an island, we all need support and guidance as we navigate our way through our careers. The contacts and friends you make as a member of ASAHPERD will be the fuel that keeps you going when the going gets tough.

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
Not sure, but probably 15+ years.

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
Originally for the professional development opportunities, which I was unable to get anywhere else. More and more however, it became for the sharing of ideas and how to overcome problems or how better present the content and bring it alive to my students with like minded professionals.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
There are many people who have inspired me over my career, but 3 who come to mind immediately are Dr. Mark Kittleson who is currently the chair of Public Health at New York Medical College. Dr. Kittleson's interest in technology and Health Education has been the motivation for me to learn and be involved with online education. Also Ms. Jaci Eckell, my mentor with ACCESS Health Education, who has always been full of innovative ideas and techniques in the classroom. Finally, Dr. William Hey, who has been a colleague since the the late 80's.

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
Professionally ASAHPERD has been a driving force in keeping me up to date with the latest trends and issues in Health Education.From a personal standpoint it has allowed me to become associated with a group of individuals who are passionate about our profession and help fuel my passion for the profession

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
Yes, without a doubt! What I have gained through ASAPHERD in both knowledge and relationships has been invaluable to me as both a professional and individual.

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
About 20 Years!

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
I originally joined ASAHPERD as an undergraduate student at UAB almost 20 years ago! When I first joined it was a requirement as an undergraduate student. It was a great networking opportunity to meet teachers in the field. It also gave me an opportunity to attend sessions and learn from some of the best in our field.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
I would say I was inspired by all of my professors at UAB who I gained knowledge and experience from throughout my undergraduate and graduate degrees. When starting out as a student teacher I was very fortunate to be able to work with Toni Leo at Oak Mountain High School and Allen McGowan at Oak Mountain Elementary. Both of these individual had established programs and were very well know in the profession. After working with the elementary age students I knew that that was the age that I wanted to teach. I was very blessed out of college to be able to get my first teaching job at Mt Laurel Elementary. I have been here 18 years and I am sure that I will retire from here! I was very fortunate to be able to work with my co teacher, Lisa Bagley for 17 years before she retired last year. She definitely impacted the teacher I am today bringing out my creative side and together we established a reputable PE program for our school. I also have been very fortunate to have many administrators including Dr. Bill Naugher, Angela Walker, Celita Carmichael and Tina Neighbors who throughout my career have always been very supportive of our program. My students also inspire me daily with their excitement for PE pushing me as an educator to find new activities and engaging lessons for them!

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
Without ASAHPERD our profession in the state of Alabama would not be what it is today. They are continually providing opportunities for growth in our field. Without ASAHPERD I would not be the teacher I am today. The leaders of this organization go above and beyond to provide resources for growth as a teacher and also communicating the importance and value of our profession to state and national leaders. Attending conferences each year allows me to attend sessions and gain new ideas to come back and present to my students. Personally ASAHPERD allows me to stay connected to professors and colleagues that otherwise I would not be able to see on a yearly basis. It is amazing twenty years later to see Dr. Hester along with others from UAB who had such a profound impact on my life as a college student.

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
ASAHPERD is the only organization in our state that is geared towards knowledge and growth for teachers in our field. With membership you will be connected with a group of people in our state who can relate to what you do on a daily basis including class size, curriculum, etc. It is like having a support group! Through membership you will have the ability to attend conferences throughout the year where presenters are brought in from around the country to provide the newest and most innovative teaching ideas. ASAHPERD leaders advocate for our field and provide many resources throughout the school year.

How long have you been a member of ASAHPERD?:
10 plus years

Why did you decide to join ASAHPERD?:
I had transferred from Mortimer Jordan High School to Bryan Elementary after 11 years of coaching softball and volleyball and teaching health. I felt like a fish out of water when I walked into the elementary gym the first day and for days to follow. I went from teaching 10th graders to kindergarteners...day and night. I needed to learn so many things. The best source was through the ASAHPERD conferences. My colleagues at Bryan Elementary were familiar with these conferences so we decided to attend together as we began to merge our ideas and develop a curriculum. The 3 of us would go to different sessions to gather all we could at conferences. It became a game changer for my confidence as an elementary teacher and as a corner stone for developing a quality program.

Who has inspired you in your career?:
My biggest inspiration in my career, especially as an elementary teacher of physical education, has been my own children, Dylan and Orion. Both of my children were in school at Bryan when I became their teacher. We would do a variety of activities in class. As children do, they would ask me why was class so boring. Why can't we do this or that? I realized that if my own children felt this, what were the other children feeling. So, my own children taught me way before National Boards to gather feedback. One of the most impactful events my school does is the Family Fun Run. This will be our 17th year. It grew from 50 people at the first event to over 1200 as of last year. This event was started as my own children said, "Mom why can't we have our own race so our friends can come". My kids are grown now; my inspiration is my current "school" children.

What has ASAHPERD membership meant to you both personally and professionally?:
ASAHPERD membership has increased my self confidence personally and professionally. I really cannot separate the two. My professional self is intertwined with my personal self. They are one in the same. I have had the pleasure and absolute delight in getting to present at conferences throughout the years. I felt vulnerable presenting something from my program; however, my colleagues were very receptive. In every session I presented, there was always a time to interact and receive compliments and questions and ways to learn from others who had done similar activities. Professionally, it gave me confidence that I was perhaps a quality teacher...that perhaps I was making a difference...perhaps I had initiated and developed a program that would be worthy of being imitated...perhaps I was on my way to leaving a "legacy".

Why would you recommend membership to others?:
I would most certainly recommend membership to others. When I was in college at Troy State University, we were told to join our professional organization. I really didn't understand the importance except to receive PD hours. When I became a teacher with my own students and program, I found that I needed to learn from other teachers in my field. I needed to hear from teachers who had experience. I needed to become aware that there are multiple ways to teach the state curriculum. I needed to realize that I was not the only teacher that had obstacles in organization of 120 students in 40 minutes. Membership in this organization provides knowledge way beyond what can be received from a textbook or a website. Attending the conferences are a no brainer. There is an exchange of ideas and modifications so that everyone takes away valuable information. To have a quality program...to take pride in what we do in the gym...we have to be continuous learners...adapting to our own environment on a daily basis.