2025-2026 HHP Educators of the Year

2026

by Alisha Katz, APR, MAMC

As the UF College of Health & Human Performance celebrates 80 years of excellence, we proudly honor those making a lasting impact on the HHP community. This year, the 2025-2026 Educators of the Year awards include the Undergraduate Teaching Award, the Faculty Advising & Mentor Award and the Professional Advisor Award. These outstanding individuals elevate education and mentorship within the college while equipping students with the knowledge, skills and confidence to excel beyond graduation. These individuals will be considered for the university-wide level, which will be announced later in the spring.

All award recipients will be recognized at the college’s Spring Awards ceremony on Friday, April 17, at the Harn Museum of Art.

Brian D. Avery, Ph.D. | HHP Undergraduate Teaching Award

Brian D. Avery, Ph.D., a senior lecturer in the UF Department of Sport Management, is the recipient of the HHP Undergraduate Teaching Award. He employs an engaging, rigorous and innovative teaching style where students learn best by doing. From multi-week mock trials in Advanced Legal Aspects in Sport & Live Entertainment, to real-world audits at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, Avery’s coursework mirrors professional practice and demands critical thinking, collaboration and problem solving – preparing students not only to succeed academically but also to thrive in the complex, high-stakes world of sport and live entertainment. Students credit him with shaping their confidence, professional identity and career trajectory.

Additionally, his integration of artificial intelligence, or AI, into coursework reflects a forward-thinking approach that equips students for an industry increasingly shaped by technology. He teaches his students how to use AI responsibly by reinforcing the importance of human judgment and ethical decision-making. Avery also leads the department’s working group that integrates AI across its curriculum.

Suzanne Sneed-Murphy, Ph.D. | HHP Faculty Advising & Mentor Award

Suzanne Sneed-Murphy, Ph.D., an instructional associate professor in the UF Department of Health Education & Behavior, is the recipient of the HHP Faculty Advising & Mentor Award. This marks her second HHP Educator of the Year honor, having been named HHP Teacher of the Year in 2020.

Sneed-Murphy is a passionate and skilled mentor whose exceptional educational experience continues to prepare students for successful careers well beyond graduation. Since joining the college in 2011, she has achieved the rank of instructional associate professor and served as the department’s undergraduate coordinator from 2018 to 2025. In this capacity, she played a pivotal role in shaping programmatic initiatives to meet the evolving needs of residential and online students.

Beyond her teaching responsibilities, she serves as the department’s assessment leader, providing guidance on accreditation requirements, and as chair of the department’s undergraduate program advisory committee. In this role, she leads the development and oversight of several new courses, curriculum revisions and new program proposals.

Kari Maples | HHP Professional Advisor Award

Kari Maples, an academic advisor in the UF Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, is the recipient of the HHP Professional Advisor Award. She demonstrates exceptional dedication, professionalism and an unwavering commitment to student success. She is widely recognized by students and colleagues as an advocate who deeply cares for the individuals she serves, with students describing her as approachable, patient and deeply invested in their academic and personal development. She takes the time to understand each student’s goals, challenges and circumstances, and works tirelessly to help them navigate degree requirements and complex coursework. Further, Maples fosters an environment where students feel supported, heard and confident in their ability to succeed.