Dear Former AWPENYS Member,
Currently, an idea for expanding the documentation and history of AWPENYS, Association of Women in Physical Education of New York State through the collection of memories and anecdotes of its former members has been under consideration. Colleen Corsi, Executive Director of NYS AHPERD, former AWPENYS Board of Directors member, Marie Corrado (Nassau Zone) and I have discussed this project.
AWPENYS historical records (1943-1987) are archived at the Babson Library, Springfield College, Springfield, MA. However, there are no personal anecdotes to memorialize and reflect members’ thoughts regarding AWPENYS’ enduring impact on physical education and athletic programs throughout NY State for girls grades 7-12.
I am requesting the assistance of women who have had contact with AWPENYS: whose physical education and sports experiences were expanded by AWPENYS, whose professional careers included contact with AWPENYS, and/or women who held leadership rolls within the organization.
A survey can be found in the link below. Responses will be archived with NYS AHPERD in Little Falls, NY to preserve and document personal reflections of this important part of NY State physical education and athletic history for girls. Expanded responses are welcome. Feel free to copy and share with any women who were impacted by this historic organization. At a future date, it is my hope that former AWPENYS members would be willing to be videotaped (post Covid) to share their AWPENYS experiences.
On a personal note, AWPENYS afforded me wonderful opportunities to develop leadership skills and grow as both a student and professional. I am sure that there are many retired women professionals from NY whose experiences were similar to mine. I am indebted to this wonderful trailblazing organization and hope that by undertaking this project, we can preserve members’ memories of its historic nature.
Sincerely,
Michele Dougherty, Retiree- NYS AHPERD, Former-Suffolk Zone, Former-AWPENYS member
