Dr. Donna Smyth

Degrees and Credentials: BS, cum laude, Physical Education, University of Massachusetts; MS, Exercise and Sports Studies, Smith College; Ed.D. Staff Development / Physical Education Teacher Education, University of Massachusetts; American Yoga Alliance, Registered Yoga Teacher

Professional Interests: Physical Education Teacher Education, Coaching Education, Yoga; Passionate about promoting lifelong physical activity, particularly in the outdoors.

Professional Background: Adjunct Faculty Member, Exercise and Sport Studies, Smith College (1984-1986); Recreation Sports Director, Hampshire College (1986-1988); Yoga Teacher Training Faculty Member, Anatomy and Physiology Solar Hill Yoga Center (2012-present), Faculty Member, Physical Education, Keene State College, (1988 to present)

Awards & Accolades: New Hampshire Association for Health, Physical education, Recreation, and Dance Outstanding College Professor; 2004 Commencement Speaker, Holyoke High School, MA; 2009 USA Track & Field Masters National Mountain Running Champion

Selected Professional Work: Smyth, D. M. & Cippola, A. (KSC student) (2010). Assessing content knowledge in a physical activity setting. New Hampshire Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance Conference, Waterville Vallry, NH. Smyth, D.M. (2007, November). Nutrition and hydration for cross-country skiers. Presentation at the NENSA West Yellowstone Cross-country Ski Camp, West Yellowstone, MT. Smyth, D.M. (2004). Introduction to winter sports: Cross-country ski curriculum outline. SnowSports Industries of America. http://www.winterfeelsgood.com/downloads/helpful/fairfax_curriculum_xc.pdf Smyth, D. M. (2004, May/June). Pikes Peak: New Englanders prepare for a challenge. New England Runner.

Personal: Passionate about leading a healthy, active lifestyle that includes: mountain and trail running, cross-country skiing, swimming, and Yoga.

Why do you like teaching at KSC?

I love working with students to provide them various opportunities to develop their own teaching styles, and become high-impact physical education professionals. In addition, I appreciate the opportunity to teach Yoga to students from all academic disciplines. It is very rewarding to help students achieve success in a physical activity setting.

Give an example of one of your most affirming moments teaching at KSC.

My colleagues and I often hear from graduates who have secured teaching positions, or who have been accepted to graduate programs. They express gratitude not only for their academic preparation, but also for the mentoring from the faculty.

What do you want your students to take away from their experience with you?

Passion … about being the best that they can be!