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Shelly Pierson
Shelly Pierson, associate professor of kinesiology/sports medicine and physical education at Diablo Valley College, has been named the “Health Educator of the Year for 2011-2012” by the California Community College Physical Educators (CCCPE).
She was honored at the annual “Honoring Our Own” celebration of the CCCPE April 5.
“The award means so much,” Pierson said, “in the fact that we need to keep the physical part of education alive. Balance in life is very important, and movement is part of that balance. Given the health status of our country, it is essential to have knowledgeable and motivated individuals that can inspire others to see the importance of a healthy lifestyle and the significance needed to keep moving, not only for physical health, but mental health and wellness as well.”
Pierson earned her AA degree from Allan Hancock College, her B.S. degree in kinesiology with an emphasis in sports medicine from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo; and her M.S. degree in kinesiology with an emphasis in sport psychology/skill acquisition from CSU Hayward. She has taught at DVC for 14 years and is the head coach for DVC men’s and women’s track and field and cross country teams. Prior to coming to DVC, she taught and coached at Concord High School in 1995 and at Clayton Valley High School from 1996 to 2001.
She is a former competitive runner and competed in races from 3.000m to 10K in college and 10K marathons at the national level post-college. She was an All-American in college in both track and cross country while running for Cal Poly SLO.
Initially hired as an adjunct faculty with coaching duties, Pierson was hired full time in 2009 to help complete the development of an associate in science degree/certificate program in personal training/fitness instruction. While completing that assignment, she was also a critical asset in the development of the campus-wide faculty/staff wellness program and personal training internship.
This unique program created synergies between faculty and students promoting a true hands-on experience for the student, while assisting in the health, wellness, knowledge, and experience for the faculty/staff members.