Human science movement junior Ricky Richard will receive the Major of the Year Award presented by the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD) at a ceremony on April 5.
Nominated by School of Kinesiology adjunct professor Katherine Hill, Richard said he was the only student up for the award from the University.
The Major of the Year Award is presented to students exemplifying superior qualities who major in physical education, sport management, athletic training, and sub-disciplines of kinesiology, according to a news release.
Richard has been a member of the national sector of AAHPERD for one year and the state program for two.
He said the primary focus of AAHPERD is to promote health in grade schools through the use of conventions geared toward students and teachers. Teachers learn about the tools to help them become better professionals, and college students attend socials and presentations centered on job skills such as interviewing and resume writing.
In addition to the Major of the Year Award, Richard also received the Future Professional on the Louisiana AAHPERD Board of Directors Award in November 2013. As a recipient of this award, Richard is permitted to cast votes on matters such as policy changes within LAHPERD and recruitment opportunities. He also won the Future Professional of the Year from the Southern District of AAHPERD in February.
Kinesiology assistant professor Wanda Hargroder said in a news release Richard’s fresh ideas have given the organization a younger look. He has introduced ideas such as promoting social media with students in the organization and helping professionals create Twitter accounts at the Southern District conference.
After graduation, Richard plans to apply to either medical school or graduate school. He plans to pursue a degree in global health and become a doctor focused on epidemics or disaster relief.