For Immediate Release
[Bethany, Oklahoma]—Southern Nazarene University (SNU) proudly announces that Dr. Sylvia Goodman was recently awarded the 2024 Betty Abercrombie Scholar Award. The Oklahoma Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (OAHPERD) gives the award to an individual whose work has greatly enhanced the profession of physical education, health, recreation, and dance. The award was presented to Dr. Goodman at OAHPERD’s Annual Convention on Monday, October 7, 2024.
Dr. Goodman is Chair of SNU’s Rehabilitation and Sports Science and Program Director for the Master of Arts in Sport Management & Administration (MASMA) and Master of Science in Exercise Science (MSES) degree programs. Her background extends beyond academia, with experience working as an athletic trainer for the Colorado Springs Olympic Training Center, the Pan Am Games, the Olympic Games, the US Figure Skating Championship, and the Boston Marathon. She also served as a Drug Control Officer for the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), an organization that helps athletes at all levels navigate their anti-doping rights and responsibilities.
Dr. Goodman’s work with students and athletes, as well as her participation in OAHPERD and the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) America, play an integral role in her eligibility for this prestigious award. Bestowal of this award also recognizes Dr. Goodman’s scholarly promotion of health, physical education, recreation, and dance through projects, presentations, journal articles, research, professional development, and more. As the 2024 recipient of the Betty Abercrombie Scholar Award, Dr. Goodman will also assume designated responsibilities for one year, including presenting at next year’s OAHPERD Convention.
"It has been my privilege to represent SNU while serving OAHPERD," said Dr. Goodman, adding, "Thank you so much."
Please join us in congratulating Dr. Sylvia Goodman on her outstanding achievement! SNU is blessed to have her as an educator and a leader.
Dr. Sylvia Goodman (second from right) is pictured below with fellow SNU faculty members after receiving her award at the OAHPERD Conference.
About Southern Nazarene University
Southern Nazarene University is a private Christian university located in Bethany, Oklahoma. Committed to a values-driven education, SNU offers students an environment where they can develop academically, spiritually, and socially. With a history of academic excellence, SNU continues to prepare students to become impactful leaders through its rigorous programs and close-knit community. For more information, please contact pgsadmissions@mail.snu.edu.
