HKR alumni promoting youth active living
Recently Recreation Newfoundland and Labrador (Recreation NL) hosted the “GETTIN’ OUTSIDE School Challenge” for NL students in grades four through six. The winning school was Southwest Arm Academy in Little Hearts Ease.
As part of their grand prize the students received a day with Dr. TA Loeffler, professor with the school of Human Kinetics and Recreation (HKR). Dr. Loeffler is known internationally as a mountaineer, educator and physical activity enthusiast.
In preparing for the day, Dr. Loeffler made an interesting observation. As she was conversing with organizers, she realized she was working with a team comprised of HKR alumni at Recreation NL and the winning school.
Ms. Ashley Button and Ms. Carla Sullivan are alumni of HKR’s Recreation degree and now work with Recreation NL. They helped organize the Getting’ Outside event. Ms. Kim Gilbert is a Bachelor of Physical Education graduate and her class won the challenge.
“I thought it was pretty cool that the three alumni ended up cooperating on this fabulous engagement day that promoted physical activity,” said Dr. Loeffler.
The organizers were excited to collaborate.
Ms. Gilbert:
“Together we all had the same goals and interests in passing on our passion for activity and the outdoors. We have chosen careers that provide us with this opportunity. It was amazing that we were able to come together to pass on these interests to an eager group of elementary students.”
Ms. Button:
“When I get the opportunity to work with fellow Memorial graduates and past professors like Dr. Loeffler to show students how to be active, I know that it will be a great experience that’ll help me learn something in the process as well.”
Ms. Sullivan:
“It’s nice to know that the person you’re working along side also values the importance of physical activity. It makes the job that much more enjoyable!”