The National Academy of Kinesiology Its Founding, Focus, and Future

This essay commemorates the National Academy of Kinesiology's ' s 90th anniversary meeting, even though the fi rst meeting of fellows of an " [American] Academy of Physical Education" " occurred in 1904, some 118 years ago. Clark W. Hetherington, Robert Tait McKenzie, William Burdick, Thomas A. Storey, and Jay B. Nash met in October 1926 to reignite the Academy of yesteryear. On December 31, 1930, just 14 months and 1 week into the Great Depression, they and 24 others formally launched what the Academy has become today. " Clearly, they were a bold, hearty, and optimistic group. Their determination, inspiration, and perspiration remain guiding lights for us to this day!" " This essay aims to demystify and humanize the Academy by sharing stories of how it was formed and how it continues to inform all those working in kinesiology and related fi elds through its distinguished Fellows, one of whom is a Nobel Laureate.