One of the unique strengths of our School of Education is our exceptional Department of Kinesiology — a department with a rich history as a pioneer in the field, and one that continues to push the boundaries of research, teaching, and service in pursuit of enhancing human health, productivity, and quality of life for all. It is this pursuit of “health for every body,” regardless of age, ability, or circumstance, that animates the cover section of this issue of Learning Connections.
In this edition, you’ll learn about kinesiology research spanning from our campus all the way to Mars, work that sheds light on complex multisymptom illnesses like Gulf War Illness and long COVID, a growing number of perspectives that are enriching the field, and much more.
This issue will also give you some insight — and a bit of a history lesson — about our No. 1-ranked Rehabilitation Counseling program, a national leader in producing compassionate, skilled professionals who serve and support people of all abilities as they pursue their personal and professional goals.
In fact, a theme of lifting up others in support of physical, mental, and emotional health echoes throughout these pages. Other stories in this issue highlight a Dance Department faculty member’s joy in finding collaboration across art forms, decades of visionary leadership from the retiring director of Tandem Press, and generous new donations that will support School of Education programs for young educators and rural principals.
Finally, and notably, you’ll also get a brief introduction to the new dean of the School of Education, Marcelle Haddix. Dean Haddix, who is from Wisconsin, brings a unique blend of scholarship and leadership in the arts, health, and education. We look forward to hearing more from her in the pages of future Learning Connections.
As you enjoy these stories, I hope you find joy, hope, and pride in our vibrant and broad School of Education community.
— Marianne Spoon
Associate Dean for Communications and Advancement