Dr. Beverly (Skolaut) Zeakes, professor and former chair of the Health and Human Performance Department at Radford University in Virginia, has received the university’s 2013 Distinguished Service Award.
Zeakes, a native of Great Bend, Kansas and a 1966 graduate of Great Bend High School, received her Bachelor of Science degree in physical and health education from Kansas State University, Master of Science degree in physical and health education from RU and Doctor of Education from Virginia Tech.
The recognition goes to faculty members whose service, over an extended period of time, has contributed significantly to the enhancement of Radford University’s operations, academic climate and sense of community.
Each year the university recognizes teaching and administrative faculty members whose performances have been exceptional. Nominations are made by members of the RU community and are recommended to RU President Penelope W. Kyle by the Faculty Awards Committee.
Zeakes served as chair of the Health and Human Performance Department (formerly known as the Exercise, Sport, and Health Education Department) from 2003 until 2013. The Health and Human Performance Department is part of RU’s College of Education and Human Development.
“When Dr. Zeakes took over as chair, the department had one academic major, one nationally accredited program, multiple concentrations and approximately 250 students,” Kyle said during Fall Convocation remarks. “Today, the department has three academic majors, three nationally accredited programs, multiple concentrations and more than 800 students.”  
Zeakes is on sabbatical for the fall 2013 Semester and will return to the RU faculty for the spring 2014 semester.
“Dr. Zeakes exemplifies someone committed to the university and the college as seen through her efforts at special programming and recruitment,” Kyle said at Fall Convocation. “Her efforts are recognized and appreciated by her faculty and students.”