Berea College Student Nationally Honored as Major of the Year in Health & Human Performance

By Joey Martelli, Shape America
SHAPE America–Society of Health and Physical Educators honored Jaden Johnson of Berea College as a Major of the Year during the organization’s 136^th National Convention and Expo, held April 26-30^th in New Orleans, Louisiana.
The award celebrates outstanding undergraduate students in the health, physical education, recreation, and dance professions who are nominated by a faculty advisor or professor. Johnson was recognized on Tuesday, April 26^th during the Opening General Session.
“The outstanding achievements of future professionals like Jaden is integral to the future of SHAPE America and our profession.” said SHAPE America President Terri Drain, the Founder and Coordinator of the Health and Physical Education Collaborative.

Johnson has been an active participant for the Families and Schools Together (FAST) program at various local schools for the past three years, and has grown throughout her time working with children and youth. At first, Johnson was a participant who helped implement the lesson plans that were already created. As Johnson grew in her teaching, she took on more mentoring roles by creating and implementing the lesson plans and assisting to evaluate her peers.
“Receiving this award is not only an honor to me, but also my professors, family and mentors who have made this achievement possible. As I continue with my academic endeavors, with a mission to increase accessibility and inclusivity for those who are differently-abled, I will carry this achievement with me as encouragement to keep moving forward.” said Johnson.
In 2022, Johnson will graduate from Berea College with a B.S. in Health and Human Performance P-12 Education.