The 2021 recipients of the NYS AHPERD Jay B. Nash Award are Charrise Everett and Megan McKie
Charrise is a senior at SUNY Brockport majoring in physical education with a GPA of 3.85. She is a member of Tau Sigma, Alpha Chi, and Phi Epsilon Kappa national honor societies. In her time at SUNY Brockport she volunteered to serve as a teaching assistant, monitoring, directing and evaluating a semester-long small-group discussion forum on elementary physical education. She is the president of the Majors Club, has attended the NYS AHPERD state conference and Central Western Zone conferences, and virtually attended the Ken Demas Leadership Academy. A professor stated, “I believe Charrise epitomizes what we want a successful student to be – an individual who strives to be the best physical education professional they can be while not being deterred by life’s challenges.” President Seymour, it is an honor to present to you our 2021 Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year, Charrise Everett.
Megan is a senior at Canisius College majoring in health and physical education. She is a member of Kappa Delta Pi. She is active in her community swimming programs both as a coach and instructor. Her community involvement extends into volunteering for Habitat for Humanity, assisting with poker runs, and the Buffalo Marathon. Prior to attending Canisius College Megan was a member and Vice President of the Majors Club at Niagara County Community College. Megan is an active member on the Western Zone Executive Council representing future professionals, curating information from the student stand point and being involved in zone decision making. Her professor said “Megan is always the first to lend a helping hand and as a faculty member when in need of student volunteers for any task, I can count on Megan to spend countless hours to do it with integrity and pride.” President Seymour, it is an honor to present to you our 2021 Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year, Megan McKie.
The 2020 recipients of the NYS AHPERD Jay B. Nash Award are Alyssa Picillo and Coby Albone
Alyssa is a recent graduate of SUNY Cortland. She majored in Physical Education with an overall GPA of 3.85. She was a member of the rugby team, President of Women’s Rugby club, and played on the rugby team when she was abroad at Edge Hill University in England. Along with studying abroad, Alyssa was inducted into Phi Beta Delta Society, for those maintaining a high GPA while studying overseas. As a member of the Majors Club she organized the Super Bowl Sunday event, participated in the Spike Ball-Out Breast Cancer Tournament, worked on the Blaze Move-In Crew, and assisted with the Club Fair. She was a National Residence Hall Honorary, elected to President of her Residence Hall. She has been a member of NYS AHPERD, SHAPE America, and USA Rugby. Alyssa is also very active in coaching synchronized swimming at Valley Steam Pool and Aquatics Club, working with young children to perform at the “Synchronized Swimming Annual Water-Show”. A professor wrote “She is an exceptional individual that often goes above the call of duty and brings a genuine and caring attitude to all that she does. “Alyssa has been described by many as, hardworking, prepared, and confident. President Seymour, it is an honor to present to you our 2020 Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year, Alyssa Picillo.
Coby is a junior at SUNY Brockport. He is double majoring in physical education and consumer health and has earned an overall GPA of 3.82. He has served as President of the NYS AHPERD Future Professionals Section, is the student representative on the Central Western Zone board, and is a part of the SHAPE America Eastern District Future Professionals Fellowship Program. At Brockport he is president of Phi Epsilon Kappa Honors Fraternity, was elected to serve on the Leadership Excellence Among Departments committee, worked with the Peer Mentor Program, and was accepted into the Brockport Honors College Program. One of Coby’s goals is to earn his master’s degree in Adapted and Outdoor Physical Education. A professor wrote, “Always, with great good humor and respect, he does his part to make interactive, constructivist teaching interesting for the teacher through cogent and thoughtful comments. These abilities, coupled with an outstanding work ethic and superb organizational skills make for an individual who consistently reaches his considerable potential.” Hardworking, organized, passionate and humble are the words used to describe Coby. President Seymour, it is an honor to present to you our 2020 Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year, Coby Albone.
The 2019 recipients of the NYS AHPERD Jay B. Nash Award are Allison Schepis and Jennifer Sladewski.
Allison is a senior at SUNY Cortland majoring in physical education. She joined the Alliance of Physical Education Majors Club as a freshman, served as secretary, vice president and is currently president. Allison is an executive board member of Sigma Delta Tau Sorority and has received numerous awards for her leadership roles on campus. Her leadership extends to serving NYS AHPERD as the Central South Zone's Future Professionals Section Representative, organizing the Zone's Food Committee, welcoming and presiding at conferences, and participating at the Ken Demas Future Professionals Leadership Academy. Allison has attended the SHAPE America Conference twice and the NYS AHPERD Annual Conference since 2016. A professor wrote, "Allison exudes a love of children, teaching and physical education. The benchmark I use in making a recommendation is, "Would I want this person to be my children's physical educator?" With Allison my answer is an unqualified and enthusiastic Yes! She represents the best in our profession." It is an honor to present our 2019 recipient of the Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year Award, Allison Schepis.
Jennifer is a senior majoring in physical education at The College at Brockport with an overall GPA of 3.99. Jennifer is a dedicated volunteer with a desire to continually enhance her leadership skills. She currently serves as an officer in the Physical Education Major's Club; she represents the club on the Brockport Student Government and Academic Council; and she has organized numerous fundraisers. Jennifer has attended and presided at NYS AHPERD conferences and central western zone conferences and attended the 2018 Ken Demas Future Professionals Leadership Academy. Jennifer's goal is to teach adapted physical education and has volunteered for various programs involving children with disabilities. A professor wrote, "Jennifer is currently writing her Honors Thesis on "The Physical Activity Components in Professional Preparation Programs for Teachers of the Visually Impaired." She is very proactive and has accomplished much work on this groundbreaking research. This is extremely impressive for an undergraduate student!" It is an honor to present our 2019 recipient of the Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year Award, Jennifer Sladewski.
The 2018 recipients of the NYS AHPERD Jay B. Nash Award are Madeline Horowitz and Kate Manson.
Madeline is a senior at Ithaca College with a dual major in health education and physical education. She is the head coach and club president of the Women's Club Volleyball Team. Madeline is a member of the 'Active Minds' mental health advocacy organization, and was elected to the executive board as co-chair of the 'Speak Your Mind' program. She has organized panels to discuss mental health in open settings on campus and in the community, and has completed a TEDx Talk addressing mental health. Madeline has been an active member of the Health Education and Physical Education Majors Club since 2015, serving as secretary, vice president and president. She has been involved with NYS AHPERD since her freshman year, attending and presenting at annual conferences. Madeline has received numerous academic scholarships and leadership awards. A professor wrote, "Madeline is a highly motivated individual who is set to become an effective educator. She takes on a leadership role in class by provoking and challenging others to engage in mindful learning. Issues on diversity in teaching and learning are central to her values." President Garbarino, it is my honor to present to you our 2018 recipient of the Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year Award, Madeline Horowitz.
Kate is a senior at Adelphi University majoring in health and physical education with a minor in gender studies. She is a member of Adelphi's Division II field hockey team and involved in team activities during the season and off-season. As a team leader, Kate has encouraged and organized her teammates to volunteer and participate in many community and university fundraisers. She has received numerous awards as a scholar-athlete. Kate has been a member of the Physical Education Majors Club since 2015, has served as vice president and is currently serving as president. She attended the SHAPE America Conference in 2017 and NYS AHPERD conferences at both the state and zone level since 2016. Kate has been a presider and presenter at each of these conferences. A professor wrote, "Over the years, I have worked with many students and I can attest to the fact that I have never seen anyone who has been so driven to excel and challenge herself as Kate Manson. She is a young woman who has thrived, matured and grown into a student of distinction." President Garbarino, it is my honor to present to you our 2018 recipient of the Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year Award, Kate Manson.
The 2017 recipients of the NYS AHPERD Jay B. Nash Award are Ceire Corcoran and Alexis Kane.
Ceire is a senior at Adelphi University majoring in health and physical education. She is very involved in community service, volunteering with groups that support our veterans, breast cancer awareness, and feeding the hungry. She is also a health awareness public speaker, volunteering her time to address topics such as the dangers of eating disorders and addictions. She has coordinated and participated in events such as Wheelchair Basketball, Autism Walk and Hoops for Heart. In service to NYS AHPERD, Ceire serves as president of the Future Professionals Section and, therefore, is a member of the Executive Council. She has presented at the Nassau and Suffolk Zone conferences and the NYS AHPERD conference. At the 2017 SHAPE America convention, Ceire received the Ruth Abernathy Award. She also received the Robert Pate Scholarship at the Eastern District Conference. One of her professors wrote, "Ceire is bright, energetic, and extremely dependable; good natured and pleasant, but assertive. She is a giving person who is an extremely hard working and dedicated student, yet she consistently seeks to learn and improve. To say that Ceire is simply outstanding is an understatement." President Wolfe, it is my honor to present to you our 2017 recipient of the Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year Award, Ceire Corcoran.
Alexis is a senior at SUNY Cortland majoring in physical education. She has been an active member of the Cortland College community as a resident assistant, a member of the National Residence Hall Honorary organization, the Alliance of Physical Education Majors Club, the Ambassador's Club and the National Society of Leadership and Success. Alexis has served as a research assistant, a tour guide for the college, has taken on the role of a teacher's assistant in two courses to assist younger students, and has participated in numerous events to benefit the community through Habitat for Humanity. She has had the opportunity to present at both the Central South Zone conference and the SHAPE America Convention. She also attended the 2017 Ken Demas Future Professionals Leadership Academy. One of her professors wrote, "Alexis is already an amazing role model, has great civic engagement qualities and has amazing advocacy skills. Her impact in the community is beyond impressive and she inspires everyone else to take part as well. We need more students and people like Alexis in this world." President Wolfe, it is my honor to present to you, our 2017 recipient of the Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year Award, Alexis Kane.
The 2016 recipients of the NYS AHPERD Jay B. Nash Award are Madison Hornung and Nick Faulds.
Madison is a senior at The College at Brockport majoring in physical education and adapted physical education. She has organized numerous events including; a sock sale to raise funds for her cross country team, "Tunnel of Oppression", a campus wide diversity and inclusion event, she serves as a peer mentor and she is a member of the newly formed Student Leadership Council at Brockport. She volunteers with a number of groups including the Rochester Rookies wheelchair and ambulatory track and field team, a gymnastics program for children with autism, and the American Heart Association Hoops for Heart Basketball Tournaments. In service to NYS AHPERD, Madison is the Future Professionals Section President, she assisted in organizing the Follow the Leader program at the state conference and helped to coordinate the recent Future Professionals Leadership Development Conference. She is a member of the Diversity Task Force and she has presented and presided at NYS AHPERD and Central Western Zone Conferences. One of her professors said, "Madison is a role model for other students because she is conscientious, prepared and goal oriented." Another said "The passion that Madison brings to her classes and all of her endeavors inspires others around her to bring their best effort. Her awards and accolades are well-deserved and impressive, but it is her work ethic, passion and humility that set her apart." President Rose it is my honor to present to you, our 2016 recipient of the Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year Award Madison Hornung.
Nick is a senior at The College at Brockport majoring in physical education with a concentration in adapted physical education. Nick has participated in numerous events including, the College at Brockport Leadership Development Conference, Camp Abilities Bottle Drive fundraiser, West Side Challenge Tennis Program and the Unites States Association for the Blind, Beep Baseball World Series. He has been a Residence Hall Assistant and he was a student representative for the Learning Environment Enhancement Program. He served as a liaison for students in the adapted physical education program, through the Department of Kinesiology, Sport Studies and Physical Education Leadership Council, he was a teaching assistant for the elementary methods in physical education class and was a swim and gym group leader. Nick also had the opportunity to present at the 2016 Central Western Zone Conference. One of his professors said, "In and out of the classroom, Nick demonstrates an abundance of intellectual curiosity along with very high standards. He interacts, questions, ponders and thinks. The aforementioned traits, coupled with an outstanding work ethic and excellent organizational skills, make for an individual who consistently motivates himself and others. Nick combines a tremendously altruistic nature with excellent pedagogical skills. He brings tremendous passion and intelligence to each and every endeavor he is involved in." President Rose it is my honor to present to you, our 2016 recipient of the Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year Award, Nicholas Faulds.
The 2015 recipients of the NYS AHPERD Jay B. Nash Award are Marissa Sell and Robert Corter.
Marissa is a senior at Roberts Wesleyan College majoring in physical education with a minor in psychology. She is a three sport athlete and has successfully managed athletics and academics throughout her college career. She has been active in the Physical Education Majors Club and has been Vice President since her freshman year. Marissa has organized and participated in numerous events with the Majors Club including; a Heart Walk, Student Education Association Parade, 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament, Volleyball Tournament, I Care Easter Egg Hunt and a Dunk Tank Fundraiser. Additionally, she has participated in Relay for Life, Make a Wish Lacrosse Game and the Adopt a School Program. Marissa has been involved in numerous volunteer activities and fundraisers, such as, Athletes in Action, Roberts Basketball Team fundraiser and a Wounded Warrior Game. She presented and presided at NYS AHPERD and Central Western Zone Conferences. Marissa was also recognized as a Scholar Athlete, East Region Player of the year, First Team All Conference and First Team All American by the National Christian College Athletics Association. One of her professors said, "Marissa is a great student who demonstrates an excellent work ethic and dedication to her studies. She has been successful at juggling sports, academics, and work. She has become a leader and sets an excellent example for her peers." President James it is my honor to present to you, our 2015 recipient of the Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year Award Marissa Sell.
Robert is a senior at SUNY Cortland majoring in Physical Education with a concentration in Adapted Physical Education. He has been active in the Physical Education Majors Club having served as President and Student Government Representative. Robert has participated in numerous events with the Majors Club. He has either organized or assisted in organizing events such as SUNY Cortland Relay for Life, American Heart Association Fundraiser and Pink Tuesday's Breast Cancer Fundraiser. Robert has been a Residence Hall Assistant and is very involved in campus activities. He is the President of the National Residence Hall Honorary which recognizes the top 1% of students leaders living within residence halls. Besides this demonstration of leadership and commitment, he has been honored as the SHAPE America Outstanding Major of the Year. He has also received awards from SUNY Cortland for Excellent Professional Disposition, Physically Educated Person Award, National Residence Hall Honorary Award and Excellence Award in Motor and Sport Skill Readiness. He has presented and presided at NYS AHPERD and Central South Zone Conferences. One of his professors said, "Without question, Robert is a highly motivated, young teacher with the will to go the extra mile to inspire and challenge his students with innovative thoughtful lessons. Robert Corter is that special, thoughtful student who goes beyond what is expected." President James it is my honor to present to you, our 2015 recipient of the Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year Award Robert Corter.
The 2014 recipients of the NYS AHPERD Jay B. Nash Award are Abigail "Abby" Stewart and Brandon Wagner.
Abby is a senior at SUNY Cortland majoring in physical education with a concentration in adaptive physical education. She is an active member of the Physical Education Majors Club and has held a leadership position since the spring semester of her freshman year. She has served as Treasurer, Vice President, and President, twice. Abby has organized and participated in numerous events with the Majors Club including organizing a Hoops for Heart event, Pink Tuesdays, the Physical Education Fall Fest, and Halloween Fun Night. She is a student representative to the Advisory Board Council for Physical Education, a freshman/transfer student tour guide and she is a member of the Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority. She presented at the 2014 AAHPERD Conference in St. Louis Missouri and she has presented and presided at NYS AHPERD and Central South Zone Conferences. Abby was recognized with the Leadership in Civic Engagement Award recognizing her volunteer service in Cortland County and she was selected by the SUNY Cortland Physical Education Department for the 256 Honors/Portfolio Showcase. One of her professors said, "Her desire to learn all facets of our profession is admirable. She is a role model and a leader. I envision that Abigail Stewart will be one of those teachers who will keep coming back, to learn, share, advocate, and help others in the quest to provide quality physical education." President Mergardt, it is my honor to present to you, our 2014 recipient of the Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year Award ~ Abigail "Abby" Stewart.
Brandon is a senior at Roberts Wesleyan College majoring in physical education. He is an active member of the Physical Education Majors Club and has served as the club president and fundraising chair. Brandon is the captain of the varsity lacrosse team as well as captain of several intramural teams. He has earned both the Achievement Scholarship and the Men's Lacrosse Scholarship from Roberts Wesleyan College and has been named to the East Coast Conference Commissioner's Honor Roll recognizing his ability to excel not only in the athletic arena, but in the classroom as well. Brandon is a Residential Advisor, a member of the Student Association Leadership Team, the Fellowship for Christian Athletes and a member of the Student Athletic Advisor Committee. He has organized and participated in numerous events including the American Heart Association Walk, homecoming, dodgeball and kan jam fundraisers. In addition, he participated in an American Heart Association Dodgeball Tournament. He has presented and presided at NYS AHPERD Conferences and he attended the Future Professionals Section Student Leadership Conference at Echo Lake for the past two years. Brandon's advisor said, "He is a natural leader, models strong moral character and sets an example for younger students." His summer recreation program supervisor said "Each year I notice that only a few outstanding employees offer a unique perspective and really embrace their position within our recreation field. Brandon is one of those individuals who put 110% energy, effort, enthusiasm and professionalism into everything he does." President Mergardt, it is my honor to present to you, our 2014 recipient of the Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year Award ~ Brandon Wagner.
The 2013 recipients of the NYS AHPERD Jay B. Nash Award are Kathleen C. Dwyer and David Michael.
Kathleen "KC" is a senior at Adelphi University majoring in physical education. She is a member of Phi Epsilon Kappa and has consistently been on the Dean's List. She is an active member of the Physical Education Majors Club, having served as chairperson of the merchandise committee for the wheelchair basketball tournament and coordinator for the Hoops for Heart event. She is a member of Breaking Boundaries, an organization dedicated to improving the treatment, education, and quality of life for children with mental and physical disabilities and she is a peer mentor at Adelphi. While studying at Fulton Montgomery Community College, KC was the captain of the women's varsity basketball team, leading the team in scoring and earning the title of Most Valuable Player. KC served on the Nassau Zone Planning Committee and has presided at both state and Zone Conferences. She attended the 2013 AAHPERD Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina and the NYS AHPERD Future Professionals Leadership Conference at Echo Lake. This year, for the first time, she presented at our NYS AHPERD Conference. KC was the recipient of the 2013 NASPE Departmental Major of the Year Award and she earned an Academic Success Scholarship for her focus and dedication to her studies. One of her professors said, "KC has been recognized by her professors for her exceptional effort and she is known as one of the hardest working, dedicated students in our program. KC is a remarkable individual, and I believe she will be a tremendous asset to our profession." President Sherman, it is my honor to present to you, our 2013 recipient of the Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year Award ~ Kathleen "KC" Dwyer.
David is a senior at Roberts Wesleyan College, majoring in physical education with plans to pursue his masters degree in health education. He is an active member of the Physical Education Major's Club and is currently serving as president. He organized the American Heart Association heart walk and a Make-A-Wish event. In addition, he has served as chairperson for the major's club fundraising and the annual freshman vs. upperclassmen event. David is active in the Student Education Association, the Student Athletic Advisor Committee, the Ballroom Dance Club and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He is captain of the varsity lacrosse team and participates in intramural team handball, volleyball, and flag football. Annually he organizes a disc golf tournament in his hometown, raising money for celiac disease research. David has presided and presented at both NYS AHPERD and Central Western Zone conferences and is the future professionals representative on the Central Western Zone Board. He received a 2012 Capital One Academic All-America® Award recognizing his athletic and academic success. At all times, David is dedicated to high ethical practices as well as a high level of personal integrity. One of David's professors said, "David is enthusiastic in his pursuit of knowledge and has demonstrated a high level of initiative. He seeks and seizes opportunities to volunteer and expand his knowledge and experience base. David is a leader among his peers because he is confident, poised and cooperative. His healthy personal image promotes cooperative behavior and teamwork among his peers."President Sherman, it is my honor to present to you, our 2013 recipient of the Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year Award ~ David Michael.
The 2012 recipients of the NYS AHPERD Jay B. Nash Award are Christina Cobucci and Sheldon Sucre
Christina is a senior at Adelphi University majoring in physical education and health education. She is a member of the Phi Epsilon Kappa Honor Society and has consistently been on the dean's list. Christina is a founding member of Delta Phi Epsilon, serving as Vice President of membership this year. She is also an active member and past president of the Physical Education Majors Club. Christina has been involved in many activities sponsored by the Majors Club including, the wheelchair basketball tournament, Hoops for Heart, beep baseball, numerous faculty/student softball games and programs to support anorexia nervosa and cystic fibrosis. She is a member of the Adelphi track team and also finds time to volunteer as a track coach. She has presented at the NYS AHPERD Conference and has presided at both state and Zone Conferences. Christina was the recipient of the 2012 NASPE Departmental Major of the Year Award. One of her professors said, "Christina takes her dedication to teaching seriously. She is a highly motivated student who takes pride in her teaching, student engagement, planning, and learning. Christina's levels of intensity and desire to achieve are seen in her ability to plan, teach, and engage everyone she encounters. As a student her ability to reflect and use problem solving skills, whenever confronted with a challenge, were demonstrations of determination and resiliency, qualities that we admire in our future professionals. " President Quitoni, it is my honor to present to you, our 2012 recipient of the Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year Award ~ Christina Cobucci.
Sheldon served in the United States Coast Guard before beginning his college education at Borough of Manhattan Community College. He is now a senior at Adelphi University, majoring in physical education with plans to pursue his masters degree in adapted physical education. He has been actively involved with the Physical Education Major's Club, serving as treasurer and vice president. Sheldon has been involved in many activities sponsored by the majors club including; Hoops for Heart, wheelchair basketball tournament and 50/50 raffles. He is an avid swimmer and participated on the masters swimming team, and both York College and Brooklyn College swim teams and he is the founder and director of an organization that runs seasonal programs to teach life skills while learning how to swim to underprivileged youth. Sheldon is active in the Boy Scouts of America, earning an Eagle Scout and continuing to be an Assistant Scoutmaster and Cub Master. He has presented and presided at NYS AHPERD and Nassau Zone Conferences. He has received Tau Sigma Honor Society membership for his outstanding service and scholarship and was the recipient of the 2012 NASPE Departmental Major of the Year Award at Adelphi University. One of Sheldon's professors said, "Sheldon is one of the most hardworking and dedicated students I know, yet he consistently seeks to learn and improve. He is bright, energetic and extremely dependable, he has a gentle yet assertive air about him that other students look up to."President Quitoni, it is my honor to present to you, our 2012 recipient of the Jay B. Nash Outstanding Major of the Year Award ~ Sheldon Sucre.
Bios for the remaining Jay B. Nash Award Recipients are not available.