FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Julia Ann Hypes Becomes President of the American Association for Physical Activity and Recreation

Reston, VA, March 29, 2010 – Julia Ann Hypes, professor of  sport management at Morehead State University (MSU) in Kentucky is the new president of the American Association for Physical Activity and Recreation (AAPAR). Hypes coordinates undergraduate internships and serves on MSU's faculty senate as well as on several university committees, including university planning, business administration school assessment, and sport management curriculum. 

"Give Back! Get Involved!" is the theme of her two-year presidency during which she hopes to inspire AAPAR members to become more active in AAPAR. 

Hypes implores members to use their "ideas, talents, and knowledge to benefit your profession and, by extension, benefit AAPAR so that AAPAR can better support your profession." She says that by sharing ideas and successes, and collaborating on projects, HPERD professionals can achieve much more in their endeavors to keep Americans physically active and healthy throughout their lives.

"We have a responsibility to advance our profession at every opportunity, and by mentoring young professionals, staying involved as seasoned veterans, and considering new ideas, each of us can make a difference." 

Hypes earned her undergraduate degree in mass communications (public relations and advertising) from Middle TN State University. She received her master's in sport science, with an emphasis in sport management, from the U.S. Sports Academy. She completed her Ph.D. in curriculum, instruction, and media technology (with an emphasis in educational technology) at Indiana State University.  

Hypes has many years of experience in athletic administration, facility management, and sports information, as well as numerous publications credits, including co-author of three textbooks. She has presented at numerous state, national, and international conferences, and has been involved with AAHPERD for more than 20 years.

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Contact:
AAPAR
AAPAR@AAHPERD.org
703-476-3430

AAPAR, one of 5 national associations that make up the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD), serves more than 8,600 professors, teachers, trainers, and community leaders who promote meaningful physical activity and recreation across the lifespan. AAPAR advocates fitness and fun for every body, with a focus on inclusive community based programs.

AAHPERD, an alliance of five national associations, six district associations, and a Research Consortium, provides its members with a comprehensive and coordinated array of resources, support, and programs to help practitioners improve their skills to further the health and well-being of the American public. It is the largest organization of professionals involved in physical education, recreation, fitness, dance, health promotion and all specialties related to achieving an active, healthy lifestyle. AAHPERD serves 20,000 members and has its headquarters in Reston, Virginia, 25 miles west of Washington DC. To learn more, visit www.aahperd.org.