Rebecca Hamik

Rebecca Hamik serves as Assistant Professor of Physical Education & Human Performance and Chair of the Department at Hastings College, with extensive experience spanning K-12 teaching and higher education leadership. Her career integrates practical classroom expertise with academic administration in physical education disciplines.

Education:

• Bachelor of Arts in K-12 Physical Education and Coaching from Hastings College
• Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Doane College

Her research focuses on innovative curriculum design for early childhood movement education, emphasizing literature-based integration of music and physical activity. This specialization stems from her decades of elementary PE teaching experience and manifests in practical frameworks for developing motor skills through storytelling.

Professional Recognition:

• Nebraska Elementary PE Teacher of the Year (2001)
• Nebraska Elementary PE Teacher of the Year (2015)
• Hastings Public Schools Teacher of the Year (2002)

Dr. Hamik's leadership extends to professional organizations as Past President and Past Co-Executive Director of SHAPE Nebraska. Her 32-year tenure teaching elementary PE in Hastings Public Schools, combined with 12 years instructing at Hastings College and 14 years in graduate studies at Doane College, demonstrates deep institutional commitment. She co-authored the curriculum resource 'Singin, Sweatin’ and Storytime' to bridge literacy development with physical activity for young learners.