Tanner Cloce, a senior Physical Education and Kinesiology (PEK) major at West Virginia University, has been named a 2024 SHAPE America Major of the Year—one of the highest national honors for undergraduate students in the field.
Presented by the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE America), the Major of the Year award recognizes top-performing students in health, physical education, recreation, and dance (HPERD) who demonstrate academic excellence, strong leadership, and a deep commitment to service. With only a limited number of students recognized nationally each year, the award is a significant honor. Cloce is the first WVU student in over a decade to earn the recognition.
At WVU, Cloce has distinguished himself through a combination of leadership and service. He was one of the founding members of the PEK Leadership Council and has helped lead programming at the WVU Nursery School, where he introduced structured physical activity opportunities for young children. He’s also actively involved with the Friday Adapted Physical Education Program, an adapted physical education initiative that supports children through gym and aquatic activities on campus.
“This recognition holds profound meaning because not only does it reflect the dedication and effort that I’ve put into the program, but because it acknowledges the positive impact I’ve had while working with individuals of various age groups and diverse backgrounds—something I deeply value in my work,” Close said.
“Additionally, this award symbolizes the unwavering support I’ve received from those around me,” he continued. “It honors not only my personal journey but also the guidance and encouragement from mentors, peers, and the entire WVU community. This recognition is not just about my work; it is about the collective effort of everyone at WVU and beyond who have helped me along the way. Their support has been integral to my achievements, and I am incredibly grateful for it.
“From day one, Tanner has stood out as a hardworking student who embodies all the qualities we hope to see in future educators,” said James Wyant, associate professor, Physical Education and Kinesiology. “He is dedicated to his schoolwork, consistently seeks to support those around him, and carries himself with professionalism and integrity. Everyone who has the pleasure of working with him praises not only his teaching abilities but also his character.”
To be eligible, students must be juniors or seniors in an HPERD-related major, maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher, hold an active SHAPE America membership, and contribute meaningfully to their school or community through at least two years of service. Faculty can nominate only one student per major, with awardees selected for their contributions to the profession and their potential as future leaders.
Cloce was formally recognized at the SHAPE America National Convention & Expo, taking place April 1–5, 2024, in Baltimore.