Radford University faculty member named Virginia Physical Educator of the Year 2019
Radford University Instructor of Health and Human Performance Steve Shelton ‘91 has been awarded the Virginia Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (VAHPERD) College/University Physical Educator of the Year for 2019.
The award was presented to Shelton on November 9 at the VAHPERD annual state convention in Virginia Beach.
Each year, VAHPERD presents the award to a college or university educator who demonstrates effective teaching through emphasizing the significance of physical education as an “important personal component that enables students to understand their own health and fitness requirements,” the organization states.
Winners also must be VAHPERD members and show evidence of professional commitment through participation in local, state and/or national physical education organizations.
Collaborating with faculty from other disciplines and demonstrating professional development by attending conferences and workshops are also important criteria VAHPERD considers for the award.
“A quick look at Steve’s vita will make it clear that he embodies creativity and a desire to share his enthusiastic passion for leading a physically active lifestyle,” said Professor of Health and Human Performance Jon Poole, Ph.D. “He is a master teacher that makes attending Radford University a better place for all students.”
As a VAHPERD member and the West Virginia Association for Health Physical Education Recreation and Dance (WVAHPERD) member, Shelton has presented on education-related topics at both organizations’ state conferences. He has authored research articles for The Virginia Journal that explore effective teaching skills and systematic self-supervision techniques, the association between physical activity and academic practice, and insights for presenting at professionals conferences.
Radford University has hosted the annual Southwest Virginia VAHPERD workshop numerous times under Shelton’s leadership, providing a professional development opportunity for Radford physical education students, as well as educators from regional schools, who may not have the opportunity to attend the state workshop in Virginia Beach.
Shelton began teaching at Radford University in 2012 and teaches a variety of courses, including motor development theory, theory and practice movement concepts, as well as a variety of courses related to teaching physical education.
Shelton graduated from Radford University in 1991 and was a member of the University’s men’s cross country team. He coached boys and girls cross country at Christiansburg High School from 1992-99, twice winning state championships and earning a national ranking in 1994. The Roanoke Times named him Timesland Coach of the Year five times during his tenure.