TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Dr. Deidre Leaver-Dunn, assistant professor of health sciences and director of the athletic training education program in The University of Alabama’s College of Human Environmental Sciences, was recently named the 2003 recipient of the Joseph S. Rowland Teaching Excellence Award.

The Rowland award is given annually to a College of Human Environmental Sciences faculty member who has demonstrated excellence in teaching. Rowland, professor emeritus of human development and family studies, was an outstanding educator and made a profound impact during his UA tenure.

Leaver-Dunn coordinates all activities within the accredited athletic training education program. In addition, she works for DCH Sports Medicine as a certified athletic trainer, producing services to Stillman College and local junior high and high schools.

“Her commitment to knowledge and understanding leads her students to love knowledge and allows them to apply this knowledge in practical everyday settings. She provides a positive learning envorment that consistently encourages originality, critical thinking and knowledge,” said Dr. Milla Boschung, dean of the College of Human Environmental Sciences.

Leaver-Dunn received her bachelor’s degree from East Carolina University; her master’s degree from the University of Virginia; and her doctorate in health education and health promotion from UA.