Dr. Roy A. Clumpner is concluding a productive and illustrious career at Western, after serving 30 years. In that time, he was instrumental in the development of core courses for the Physical Education program, and in creating the well respected Physical Education pedagogy program. In the Department of Physical Education, Health and Recreation, Dr. Clumpner served as the Program Coordinator for Physical Education and as Department Chair. When he wasn’t filling an administrative role, Dr. Clumpner was always willing to “step up to the plate,” by serving as Interim Department Chair and Chair Pro Tem. He has never hesitated to serve on dozens of department or university committees. Needless to say, the entire department and university functioned better with Dr. Clumpner’s leadership and contributions.

Dr. Clumpner has been recognized for his many contributions to the profession, as well. He has made over 70 presentations regionally, nationally, and internationally. He authored the book Sport Progressions (published by Human Kinetics) in 2003. The Washington Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance awarded him the Honor Award in 1984 and in 2004, and he served as the Editor for the WAHPERD Journal from 1979 to 1989. He served as Secretary for International Relations Council of the American Alliance for Physical Education, Health, Recreation and Dance (1976-78) and as a Board Member and Treasurer for the International Society on Comparative Physical Education and Sport (1998-2004). Dr. Clumpner also received the Distinguished Service Award at the Awards for Professional Excellence, sponsored by Woodring College of Education, in 1992. His lists of other professional contributions --- from community presentations to reviewing books and manuscripts to professional organization appointments --- are quite lengthy and impressive.

On a personal note, Roy has been my closest friend, my confidante, my mentor, and my biggest supporter since I arrived at Western in 1991. We had his retirement extravaganza on May 21, in a room filled with over 150 people whose lives have been touched and enriched by this man. Roy is known for his high standards, his amazing and bizarre sense of humor, his deep commitment to the profession, and his devotion to his students. He is adored and will be tremendously missed. It has been a pleasure for me to be his partner in crime for last 14 years. He is a true friend whom I love, and I celebrate his retirement as it will only give us more time to spend together.

LeaAnn Tyson Martin
Department of Physical Education, Health and Recreation
Western Washington University