RESTON, Virginia – The Society of Health and Physical Educators honored Molly Garrison of Winthrop University in April as its Major of the Year recipient during the organization’s 136th National Convention & Expo in New Orleans, Louisiana.
The award celebrates outstanding undergraduate students in the health, physical education, recreation and dance professions who are nominated by a faculty advisor or professor. Garrison was recognized on April 26 during the Opening General Session.
She stood out as a Major of the Year candidate by completing her edTPA assessment and licensing requirements one semester early in order to participate in the ASPIRE internship certificate program as part of her student teaching experience. She taught at Geiger Elementary School in Ridgeway, South Carolina, where she established herself as a valuable asset to her school and community.
Winthrop faculty members said Garrison embodies what they hope to see in program graduates. “She always puts the students first and is continually looking to grow as a professional. As a student, Molly jumps at opportunities to contribute to the field, she’s attended “Speak Out” day on the national level and is active in our state organization as a future professional,” said Adam Keath, assistant professor in the Department of Physical Education, Sport and Human Performance. “Most importantly when I look at Molly, I can say with confidence that I would be glad to have her teaching my own children.”
Garrison graduated May 7 with a B.S. in Physical Education from Winthrop and will work as the assistant camp director at Camp Canaan in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
About SHAPE America
The Society of Health and Physical Educators is the nation’s largest membership organization of health and physical education professionals. Since its founding in 1885, the organization has defined excellence in physical education, and its National Standards for K-12 Physical Education serve as the foundation for well-designed physical education programs across the country. They provide programs, resources and advocacy to support health and physical educators at every level, from preschool to university graduate programs.
