ODU's Spina Named AAKPE Fellow

Robert Spina, professor of exercise science in the Darden College of Education at Old Dominion University, has been elected to membership as an Active Fellow in the American Academy of Kinesiology and Physical Education (AAKPE). Election to the academy is reserved for those who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement in the field. Fewer than 500 individuals have been elected to the academy since its founding in 1930.

The induction ceremony will take place in Chicago in September.

Bill Graves, dean of the Darden College of Education, said of the honor: "Dr. Spina's induction as an Active Fellow of the AAKPE is a tribute to his scholarship, and it brings great honor to the university. Dr. Spina is the university's second AAKPE Active Fellow. Dr. Mel Williams, ESPER professor and eminent scholar emeritus, is ODU's only other holder of this honor."

Known for his research on exercise and its effects on aging, cardiovascular function and metabolism, Spina was named chair of ODU's exercise science, sport, physical education and recreation department in July 2006.

The AAKPE aims to encourage and promote the study and educational applications of the art and science of human movement and physical activity and to honor by election to its membership persons who have directly or indirectly contributed significantly to the study of and/or application of the art and science of human movement and physical activity.