Laura Blitzer
Associate Professor of Physical Education in Urban SchoolsProgram Coordinator
B.S., University of FloridaM.S., Brooklyn CollegePh.D., University of Georgia
laura.blitzer@liu.edu
Description
Dr. Blitzer holds a B.S. degree in physical education from the University of Florida, an M.S. in physical education from Brooklyn College (CUNY) with an emphasis in psychosocial aspects of physical activity and a Ph.D. in curriculum and teaching from the University of Georgia.
Since 1996, she has been a student of Chinese medicine and Eastern health practices, and she incorporates this information into her teaching and scholarship. Dr. Blitzer has designed several studies that examine the potential applications of complementary alternative medicine and healthcare practices with HIV/AIDS and clinically depressed populations. She is presently working on the development of an edited book that reviews CAM practices in sport settings.
As the program coordinator for physical education K-12 at the Brooklyn Campus, she is responsible for undergraduate program development and accreditation. Dr. Blitzer teaches courses in physical education methods, health and wellness, and foundations of education. She has been the recipient of multiple Excellence in Teaching Awards and also has been awarded several research grants. Dr. Blitzer has a strong record of service to the university and community and is a reviewer for several national journals and conferences.
Specialties
Physical Education, Social Foundations of Education
Publications
- Co-author, “Treating major depressive disorder with acupuncture,” published in The American Acupuncturist (AAOM) (February 2006)
- Co-author, “Thinking outside the box: Placing park and recreation professionals in K-12 schools,” published in the Journal of Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (January, 2004)
- Co-author, “Using acupuncture to treat major depressive disorder: A pilot investigation,” published in the Journal of Clinical Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (December 2003)
- Author, “Mothering in the academy,” published in “The Muse,” a publication of the The Women’s Center at Florida International University (August 2001)
Honors/Awards
- Recipient, Amazing Person Award, New York State Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance Executive Committee (2009)
- Recipient, Excellence in Teaching Faculty Award, Florida International University (2000 and 2007)
Professional Affiliations
- Member, American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD)
- Member, New York State Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (NYSAHPERD)
- Member, NYSAHPERD, New York City Zone