PHETE award winners and presenters (from left to right) at 2022 SHAPE Nebraska conference were: Kelcie Gaines, Health Education MOY; Jokob Trosper, PK-12 Physical & Health Education MOY; Frank Lynott, Professor PSC; Brandel Rienkenberg, presenter; and Jamie Copenharve, Physical Education MOY. (PSC photo)

Press release contributed by Dr. Frank Lynott, Associate Professor of Health, Physical Education & Recreation

Each year, the Society of Health and Physical Educators of Nebraska partners with colleges and universities to recognize the outstanding future professionals in the Physical and Health Education and Human Performance field. This year, three Physical and Health Education Teacher Education (PHETE) Majors from Peru State College were nominated by Frank Lynott, Associate Professor School of Education, and recognized at the 2022 SHAPE Nebraska conference. Jamie Copenharve was honored as the Physical Education major or the year. Kelcie Gaines was also named as the Health Education major of the year and Jokob Trosper was named the PK-12 Physical & Health Education major of the year. When asked about nominations, Dr. Lynott replied, “They all have shown the dedication by providing service and fostering physical and health literacy in the PK-12 school setting.”

In addition to these students, Brandel Riekenberg, another PHETE major, researched, developed, and presented with Dr. Lynott at the conference. The presentation provided attendees with engaging and effective Active Learning Lessons to implement in their health classrooms. As stated by Jamie Copenharve and Kelcie Gaines, presenting as a PHETE major to an audience of in-service teachers was at first nerve-racking. However, according to Dr. Lynott, “They all were well prepared and came across as true professionals.” Students also attended several other sessions at the conference. Jakob Trosper commented, “Attending and presenting was a great experience and I plan on attending next year.” Dr. Lynott indicated that it was the sixth consecutive year that Peru State College students were recognized and presented at the SHAPE Nebraska Conference. This would not have been possible without the support of Peru State College’s School of Education and grant funding. We are deeply grateful for these sources.