WAU Students Shine at AAMP Convention, Promoting Holistic Wellness in Adventist Education

COLUMBIA, Md. — On March 31, 2025, students from Washington Adventist University (WAU) joined peers from across the country for a landmark event hosted by the Adventist Association of Movement Professionals (AAMP). Held at the North American Division (NAD) headquarters in Columbia, Maryland, the annual convention gathered future leaders, educators, and advocates of physical education, movement science, and holistic wellness within the Adventist education system.

The event served as a vital platform for students to present research and projects in areas such as mental health, exercise science, motor learning, and injury prevention. Attendees engaged in networking opportunities, exchanged ideas, and held meaningful discussions about the future of health and wellness education in Adventist institutions.

Among the standout participants were three students from WAU’s Department of Health, Wellness, and Physical Education: Dairin De Leon, Deryanis Colon Velez, and Samiah Gross. Each presented projects reflecting academic excellence and a commitment to promoting holistic health, adding depth and diversity to the convention’s collaborative atmosphere.

A highlight of the day came when Deryanis Colon Velez received the National Student Professional Award, recognizing her leadership, excellence, and passion within the field. Her achievement was celebrated with enthusiastic applause and support from students and faculty.

“Attending the AAMP convention was an incredibly inspiring and affirming experience,” Colon Velez said. “Being surrounded by other students and professionals reminded me why I chose this field. Winning the Student Professional Award was both humbling and motivating, and it is a moment I will carry with me as I continue growing in this profession.”

Fellow presenter Dairin De Leon reflected on the significance of the event.

“This experience deepened my passion for health, wellness, and physical education,” De Leon said. “Learning from fellow presenters and attendees was truly inspiring, offering fresh perspectives and invaluable insights. It reaffirmed the strength of the supportive community—not just at WAU, but throughout the Adventist network as well.”

Samiah Gross also spoke on the transformative nature of presenting at the convention.

“Presenting at AAMP helped me grow both professionally and personally,” Gross said. “I was able to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting while connecting with peers who share the same goals. The encouragement and feedback I received were incredibly motivating. It showed me that we’re not alone in this journey—there’s a whole community working toward positive change in health and education.”

Beyond serving as an academic showcase, the AAMP Convention underscored the critical role movement professionals play in shaping healthier, more balanced communities within faith-based education. As students like De Leon, Colon Velez, and Gross continue to lead with passion and purpose, the future of wellness and physical education within the Adventist system looks brighter than ever.

Students interested in becoming part of this dynamic, purpose-driven community are encouraged to explore Washington Adventist University’s Department of Health, Wellness, and Physical Education. WAU offers a supportive environment, hands-on learning experiences, and a commitment to developing leaders who are ready to make a difference in health, education, and beyond.

For more information on how to join the program, visit wau.edu.