Morgan State University Students Win "Outstanding Future Professional" Award in Health and Physical Education

As Morgan State University continues to rise as one of the nation’s fastest-growing research institutions, its students are earning recognition for their academic excellence and career preparation. Adding to these accolades, seniors Jaiden Gomez and Eboni Singletary, both majoring in Sports Administration and Movement Education (formerly Physical Education), were recently honored with the Society of Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) Maryland’s Outstanding Future Professional Award. This prestigious award celebrates their commitment to health and physical education, leadership, and academic distinction.

Awarded annually, the Outstanding Future Professional Award recognizes students demonstrating exceptional potential as future leaders in health and physical education. Selections are based on academic achievement, professional involvement, and leadership in community outreach or advocacy.

Pursuing their studies in the School of Education and Urban Studies (SEUS), both Jaiden and Eboni have been active leaders in their major, contributing through campus organizations, community outreach programs, and mentorship roles that inspire healthier living and promote physical education among underserved populations.

“Being recognized as an Outstanding Future Professional not only acknowledges the skills I possess but also my personal growth and acquired knowledge,” said Eboni Singletary. “It enhances my confidence and confirms that I’m on the right path, consistently becoming a better professional.”

“Receiving this award reassures me that I am on track to be the best version of myself every day and that youth is not a barrier to success,” said Jaiden Gomez. “It serves as both a reflection of my past achievements and a motivation to continually improve.”

SHAPE Maryland is dedicated to advancing health and physical education across the state, celebrating educators and future professionals who innovate and inspire in their fields. Each year, Maryland’s teacher preparation institutions nominate candidates for this award, recognizing those poised to make a lasting impact on healthful living, leadership, advocacy, and service in health and physical education.

In July 2024, the Maryland Higher Education Commission approved Morgan’s request to rename the B.S. in Physical Education to Sports Administration and Movement Education to better reflect the program’s modern, comprehensive scope and the diverse career paths available to graduates.

The School of Education and Urban Studies (SEUS) at Morgan encompasses three departments—Advanced Studies, Leadership and Policy; Teacher Education and Professional Development; and Family and Consumer Sciences. With more than 1,000 students enrolled across 12 undergraduate and graduate programs, SEUS is the university’s leading producer of doctoral degrees. Its graduates hold prominent roles in education nationwide, from community college presidents to university faculty and K-12 educators.

Singletary emphasized her commitment to future students: “This award pushes me to be a champion for the students I teach. Every child deserves a champion, and I will be that for my students through my professional endeavors.”

Congratulations to Eboni and Jaiden on this well-deserved honor!