Rate My Professor Jan Kiger

Jan Kiger is the Department Chair of Health and Human Performance at Fairmont State University, where she also holds the titles of Associate Professor of Outdoor Recreation Leadership and Falcon Park and Trail Coordinator. She earned a Master of Science and a Bachelor of Science from West Virginia University. In her multifaceted roles within the College of Education, Health and Human Performance, Kiger coordinates the Outdoor Recreation Leadership Program, which utilizes outdoor platforms to cultivate student leadership skills and improve post-graduation employability. She leads the university's Explorer’s Club, facilitating leadership opportunities, networking, skill development, and community service initiatives to enhance recreation access throughout West Virginia. Additionally, Kiger serves as program specialist and instructor in outdoor recreation leadership, contributing to the department's offerings such as Exercise Science and Physical Education programs.

In 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Kiger spearheaded the Falcon Park and Trail project through collaboration with the Fairmont State Foundation, Student Government Association, Facilities, and Grants Departments. This initiative created a distinctive green space on campus dedicated to nature-based learning, fostering creativity, problem-solving abilities, and academic performance for students and surrounding communities. Her innovative approach to recreation education and leadership has earned significant recognition. In 2020, she received the Recreation and Leisure Leadership Award from the Society of Health and Physical Education for West Virginia (SHAPEWV), honoring her outstanding and creative leadership in the recreation profession at the collegiate level. Fairmont State University President Mirta M. Martin praised Kiger's profound impact on students and her ability to ignite passion for health and recreation. In 2023, Kiger was awarded the Academic Advising Award for excellence in supporting undergraduate and graduate student advising, career exploration, and critical thinking development. In 2024, she was promoted to Associate Professor of Outdoor Recreational Leadership and granted tenure by the Office of the Provost. Kiger's dedication to instilling leadership and citizenship through outdoor programming continues to shape the next generation of professionals in health and human performance.