Regan Johnson wins Professional of the Year award

The Enterprise — Jordan J. Michael

Regan Johnson congratulates on Monday the latest Guilderland athletes to sign their college intentions at Guilderland High School. He recently won the Professional of the Year award from the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance. 

GUILDERLAND — Regan Johnson never smoked. His body is his temple. And he instills that in students as Guilderland’s athletic director.

He has been named Professional of the Year by the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance.

“He is the prime example of what an AD should be,” said Bud Watson, the Capital Zone president of NYSAHPERD. “He promotes a healthy lifestyle throughout the state.”

Johnson said this week that he was surprised to win the award, but also happy, saying, “it’s icing on the cake.” He’s been the head athletic director at Guilderland for three years, and started working for the district in 1996.

Johnson was nominated by members of NYSAHPERD, which says that the Professional of the Year award is given to “an outstanding administrator or teacher who is recognized as an extraordinary leader and who has contributed exceptional service to the association and our profession.”

Johnson will be feted on May 4 at Hudson Valley Community College.

Guilderland Superintendent Marie Wiles recommended Johnson for the honor.

“He’s one of the most deserving individuals that I know,” Wiles said. “I have always been impressed with the thoughtful and through approach that he brings to his work. He puts the students first, and honors the efforts of his co-workers.”

Wiles complimented Johnson’s commitment, leadership, professionalism, and dedication to the Guilderland school district. “He really has a huge job — it’s complex and highly visible,” she added. “It’s often political and time consuming.”

Johnson is committed to the community, Wiles said, adding, “He does it all. I’m very proud of him.”

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