Empowering Through Education: Dr. Nhu Nguyen, President-Elect of SHAPE Colorado

In the realm of physical education, Dr. Nhu Nguyen stands as a beacon of innovation, advocacy, and empowerment. As the President-Elect of SHAPE Colorado, her influence and dedication to advancing the field are palpable, leaving an indelible mark on both her students and colleagues alike.

Currently serving as the K-12 Physical Education Teacher Education (P.E.T.E.) Program Director and Professor at MSU Denver, Dr. Nguyen’s commitment to excellence shines through her teaching methods, field experiences, and student mentorship. Her leadership extends far beyond the classroom, encompassing a breadth of initiatives that underscore her passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), as well as social justice.

Dr. Nguyen’s impact within her department and program is profound. She spearheads individual DEI goals, fosters a culture of cultural responsiveness, and champions initiatives aimed at reducing financial barriers for students. Through her recent grant from the Colorado Department of Education (CDE), she is paving the way for accessible education by transitioning her courses to a zero-cost model, aligning with the university’s mission of providing low-cost or free materials.

Beyond academia, Dr. Nguyen is deeply engaged in community outreach and advocacy. She serves on various local school district and university committees, representing traditionally underrepresented groups. As an innovator and founding member of the School of Education and SHAPECO BIPOC Affinity Groups, she amplifies voices that have long been marginalized, while obtaining grants to fund community initiatives.

Dr. Nguyen’s commitment to trauma-informed practices further underscores her holistic approach to education. Through workshops conducted statewide, she equips teachers with the tools to create supportive and inclusive environments, fostering resilience and well-being among students.

Throughout her journey, Dr. Nguyen’s humility and dedication shine brightly. Rooted in her own humble beginnings, she navigates intentional partnerships and advocacy efforts with grace and empathy, championing the agency and excellence of others.

Recognized by peers and colleagues for her outstanding contributions to DEI, Dr. Nguyen’s impact reverberates far beyond the confines of academia. She embodies the transformative power of education, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future, one student and one community at a time.

As President-Elect of SHAPE Colorado, Dr. Nhu Nguyen stands poised to continue her mission of empowerment, inspiring generations of educators to embrace diversity, foster equity, and champion social justice in every facet of physical education.