Andrew Colombo-Dougovito, Assistant Professor of Sport Pedagogy and Motor Behavior in the Department of Kinesiology, Health Promotion, and Recreation in the UNT College of Education, was presented the Young Professional Award in Adapted Physical Activity at the International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity in association with the International Federation of Adapted Physical Activity in Charlottesville, VA.

The Young Professional Award in Adapted Physical Activity recognizes the development of passionate enthusiasm and inspiration in young adapted physical activity professionals younger than 40.

The award was established in 1992 through a donation from Dr. Claudine Sherrill. Two Young Professional Awards are given biennially, in conjunction with each International Symposium on Adapted Physical Activity. Recipients must be present at the Symposium and be members of IFAPA. One award specifically recognizes the contribution of a young professional from the country/region hosting the ISAPA. The second award is open to all eligible professionals.

Colombo-Dougovito received his Ph.D. from the University of Virginia in 2017 in Kinesiology with a focus in Adapted Physical Education. He came to UNT in August 2017 where he serves as the Director of the UNT Physical Activity and Motor Skill program and Faculty Liaison to the Kristin Farmer Autism Center at UNT.