The Physical Education Division (PED) is an integral part of the Kinesiology and Health Education Department curriculum. This program is based on the premise that human movement development reaching an individual’s maximum physical potential will result in social, emotional, and intellectual growth.
The PED offers courses such as conditioning, competitive sports, and self-defense in skill levels ranging from basic to advanced for faculty, staff, and students. Participants will be physically educated and acquire the motor skills and knowledge to perform a variety of physical activities. This creates an intrinsic motivation to pursue a healthy lifestyle in an increasingly changing society.
The Importance of an Active Lifestyle
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and numerous other independent researchers clearly demonstrate that physical activity has positive impacts. Regular exercise will increase learning, enhance self-esteem, and improve overall health. Physical Education is essential to achieve these outcomes.
All 230 courses promote the opportunity for vigorous exercise and fitness education. By participating in courses that promote physical activity, enrolled students will gain a greater understanding of the benefits of regular physical activity. They will learn some specific methods of accomplishing personal goals as they relate to health and fitness.
In supporting the mission of the Department of Kinesiology and Health Education, the division seeks to enhance the quality of life of the general public through research, instruction, and service in the areas of health, exercise, and sport. To this end, the division provides an avenue for highly qualified faculty and teaching assistants to disseminate current research and professional expertise to participants.
Faculty
 Kimberly BeckwithAssistant Professor of InstructionTeaches courses on sport history and strength and conditioning. Research focuses on physical culture history. |
Jason ChartouniAssistant Professor of PracticeTeaches courses in martial arts. |
 Don CrowleyAssistant Professor of PracticeExperienced swimming and diving coach and water safety expert who teaches courses related to swimming. |
 Nicholas EngeLecturerResearches and teaches social dances from the 19th century to the present. |
 Erik GnagyClinical Assistant ProfessorSpecializes in behavior, sports performance, and decision making in golf; teaches golf and courses need to be certified in physical education. |
 Zoe ManatarakisAssistant Professor of PracticeTeaches yoga classes as both a physical practice and educational experience. |
 Nicole McLaganAssistant Professor of PracticeTeaches courses in weight training, conditioning, and aerobic activities. |
 Geoff RichAssistant Professor of PracticeTeaches softball, volleyball, basketball, and courses needed to be certified in physical education. |
 Galia TzvetkovAssistant Professor of PracticeTeaches courses in tennis, and focuses on elite sport performance. |
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