Search

Emerging Scholar Award

Purpose

The Emerging Scholar Award recognizes outstanding scholarly research and applied contributions by graduate students in the field of adapted physical activity or adapted physical education (APA/APE). The award is presented annually to one doctoral (PhD) student and one master’s degree student pursuing graduate studies in APA/APE.

PhD Degree–Seeking Students

Applicant Criteria

  • Must be currently enrolled in a doctoral graduate program at the time of application (post-doctoral scholars are not eligible). The student may have graduated by the time the award is presented.
  • Must be a member of NCPEID at the time of application. Applicants may apply for NCPEID membership prior to nomination submission.
  • Demonstrates scholarly productivity in APE and/or APA through authorship or co-authorship of peer-reviewed scholarly papers completed while enrolled in a graduate program (not during post-doctoral training).
  • Has presented research or innovative professional presentations designed for teachers or practitioners in APE and/or APA at regional, national, and/or international conferences.
  • Demonstrates active involvement in service related to APE and/or APA at the university, national, and/or international level.
  • May be nominated for the award more than once, but may receive the award only one time.

Master’s Degree–Seeking Students

Applicant Criteria

  • Must be currently enrolled in a graduate program at the time of application. The student may have graduated by the time the award is presented.

  • Must be a member of NCPEID at the time of application. Applicants may apply for NCPEID membership prior to nomination submission.

  • Demonstrates scholarly interest in APA/APE through authorship or co-authorship of peer-reviewed papers; conducting or assisting with research; serving as a research assistant; completing a master’s thesis; and/or conducting an independent or action research study in APA/APE.

  • Has presented research or practice related to APE and/or APE at local, regional, national, or international conferences.

  • Demonstrates active involvement in professional organizations, volunteering, or leadership roles related to APE and/or APE (e.g., service-learning programs, campus-based laboratories, adapted sports or physical activity programs).

  • May be nominated for the award more than once, but may receive the award only one time.

2026 Master's Emerging Scholar Recipient: 

2026 PhD Emerging Scholar Recipient: