|
|
|
2007
Convention
Highlights |
OAHPERD
2007
Convention Highlights
The 2007
convention was a success in all aspects.
We had record attendance at
both the workshops and the convention itself,
presented many awards and had many quality
presentations. Under the direction of President
Chad Kinder, the convention had a recreation
flavor tying into his theme: “Live the
Adventure”.
Our records
show that we had a total of 270 pre-conference
participants
on Thursday. Four workshops were available.
The Early Childhood Workshop had 80 participants
and marks the fourth year for this event. “Cat Paws” presided at
this workshop and we attracted about 25 Early Childhood teachers who did not
identify with OAHPERD. This workshop is a great example of advocating for our
mission and providing meaningful programming to allied professionals. The Coaching
Workshop was again a success and was a hit with the student membership. Eighty
participants attended this workshop and participants heard from a variety of
speakers. The nationally sponsored PECAT workshop attracted 70 professionals.
This assessment workshop was funded and sponsored by the Centers for Disease
Control. Workshop materials were provided as a part of this workshop. The Self
Defense Workshop: Kid Shield, attracted 40 participants and dealt with not only
issues of defense in the traditional sense, but safety issues for children as
well.
The overall convention attendance
was 336. The breakdown was 164 pre-registered
and 19 on-site professionals respectively and 121 pre-registered and 32 on-site
students. About 40 Jump Rope for Heart coordinators attended at a reduced convention
rate. Our membership is currently 411.
Judy Duncan hosted the Higher
Education discussion on Thursday afternoon
and a social
followed leading into the banquet and awards
ceremony. Stephanie Canada,
Vice President for Recreation and current Oklahoma Teacher of the Year, was
the keynote speaker.
Friday morning began with Lu
Edwards hosting the traditional JRFH breakfast
which is always well attended.
There were 20 separate sessions on Friday
with a sold
out Rock Climbing experience of-site. In addition to the professional sessions,
two general sessions and traditional get luncheons rounded out the day.
Exhibits were open all day Friday.
President Kathy Hixon closed the conference allowing participants to assist
her in choosing her theme and she announced the new 2007-2008 OAHPERD Board
and Council.
The 2008 fall convention will once again be at the Clarion Meridian Hotel
and Convention Center on October 2nd and 3nd. Plan to attend this festive
event
as a participant or better yet, a presenter.
Submitted by: Mark L. Giese
