Southern Miss Student and Professor Honored at State Conference

The University of Southern Mississippi's physical education program was honored at the Mississippi Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (MAHPERD) 2016 Convention in Jackson, Miss. Nov. 3-4.

Aaron Zimmerman, a sport coaching education and physical education student, received the Outstanding Student Award.

“This award opened my eyes to see that what I am doing as a student is helping me become a better professional,” said Zimmerman, president of the Physical Education Majors Club. “I hope every student will realize what we do as students affects us later on in our professional lives.”

Zimmerman, a Mesquite, Texas native, said his childhood coaches inspired him to pursue teaching and coaching. “I want to make a positive impact on the lives of young athletes and see them grow up to become better men and women.”

“Aaron has expressed willingness to learn and teach others,” said Dr. Robert Doan, assistant professor of physical education. “I have been very impressed with his passion and attention to detail while working with him on multiple projects."

Doan received the Pride in Teaching Award and presented “Unpacking Secondary Grade-Level Outcomes.”

“Dr. Doan's commitment to the physical education program and our School is evident,” said Dr. Scott Piland, professor and director of the School of Kinesiology. “He continually seeks opportunities to further develop our students. We are fortunate to have him on our team.”

Doan's physical education research focuses on National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NAPSE) standards and grade-level outcomes, assessment and motor skills development. His other research involves the recruitment, training and retention of sport officials.

For more information about the School of Kinesiology in the Southern Miss College of Health, visit www.usm.edu/kinesiology.