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USF doctoral student awarded national scholarship from Society of Health and Physical Educators

Craig Nieman headshot

Craig Nieman

Craig Nieman, a doctoral student in the University of South Florida’s (USF) College of Education, was selected as a recipient of the Ruth Abernathy Presidential Scholarship, a national award presented by the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE America).

SHAPE America, a national organization for health and physical education professionals, awards the Ruth Abernathy Presidential Scholarship to a select number of students each year who demonstrate scholastic proficiency, leadership, strong character and participation in professional and service activities.

Nieman, who is currently enrolled in USF’s PhD in curriculum and instruction with a concentration in teacher education, is also a graduate teaching assistant in USF’s Physical Education Teacher Education Program. He plans to earn his doctoral degree in 2023.

“I am honored, thankful and excited to be receiving this scholarship from SHAPE America,” Nieman said. “I know I wouldn't even be in the position to earn this distinction if it wasn't for the support and encouragement of the faculty at USF, especially in the Physical Education Teacher Education and Teacher Education programs.”

Nieman will be formally presented with the scholarship at the SHAPE America National Convention & Expo in New Orleans in April.

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About the USF College of Education:

As the home for more than 2,200 students and 130 faculty members across three campuses, the University of South Florida College of Education offers state-of-the-art teacher training and collegial graduate studies designed to empower educational leaders. Our college is nationally accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), and our educator preparation programs are fully approved by the Florida Department of Education.