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: