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AAHPERD/AAHE/SOPHE Joint Statement
November 1, 2012
In June 2012, the Alliance Assembly of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (AAHPERD) voted to unify its five national associations and the Research Consortium into one association as it looks to represent physical education, physical activity and health with a main focus on school-based programming. To support its diverse membership AAHPERD will continue to serve the needs of its members who teach health.
The Alliance Assembly's support for unification followed the AAHPERD Board of Governors' unanimous vote in fall 2011 to approve the release of the American Association for Health Education (AAHE), one of AAHPERD's five national associations. In April 2013, AAHPERD will formally merge its associations into one national organization.
AAHE has collaborated for many decades with the Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE), and more recently the two organizations have been working to align their organizational programs and resources. This activity is expected to culminate in spring 2013, concurrently with the AAHPERD re-organization, and will strengthen the health education profession across its many practice areas.
As we look to the future, it is envisioned that AAHPERD and SOPHE will collaborate or partner on advocacy, continuing education, joint publications, or other initiatives under the direction of their respective organizational leaders. Building on our complementary strengths and members' expertise in the disciplines of physical education and health education, we can help to improve the health and lives of all people where they live, learn, work, and play.
For questions or comments regarding the merger please contact AAHE