The West Virginia Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance ( WVAHPERD), the state’s professional organization representing physical and health education teachers and those in related fields, has honored three CPASS professionals for their research and dedication to physical activity and health as some of the state’s most dedicated educators.
Sean Bulger, associate professor, received the Ray O. Duncan Award. Bulger previously accepted the WVAHPERD Honor Award, as required to be considered for this most prestigious award within the organization. Bulger was selected for providing exemplary service to the Association and the profession.
Bulger’s current school-based projects include Greenbrier CHOICES (Children’s Health Opportunities Involving Coordinated Efforts in Schools) and McDowell CHOICES (Coordinated Health Opportunities Involving Communities, Environments and Schools). These projects target the development, implementation, management and evaluation of comprehensive school physical activity programs and have generated more than $1 million in grants/contracts.
Andrea Taliaferro, associate professor, was honored with the Scholar Award, as displaying scholarly activity, service and commitment to the profession. Taliaferro is a Certified Adapted Physical Educator through the National Consortium for Physical Education and Recreation for Individuals with Disabilities. She directs the college’s Friday Program, providing inclusion for individuals with disabilities in physical activity within Monongalia County.
Mary Wolk, program coordinator, Lifetime Activities, received the Recreation and Leisure Award in honor of her outstanding and creative leadership in the recreation profession at the university level. Wolk has exhibited recreation leadership as demonstrated by having delivered presentations and workshops at conferences. In addition to Lifetime Activities, Wolk oversees the college’s National Youth Sports Program.
WVAHPERD honors outstanding professionals each year for their dedication to their profession and as nominated by their peers. The recipients are recognized at the annual state conference during the awards banquet.
The organization has a diverse membership ranging from pre-professional college students who are preparing for a career in education to long-standing educators in the primary, secondary and college levels.
WVAHPERD is a member of the Mid-West District, a sub-division of SHAPE America. Members attend the state convention to benefit from professional development activities and lecture events.