Angie Nazaretian
Class of 2011

Angie Nazaretian
Dr. Nazaretian began her tenure at Athens College in 1958, after graduating from the University of Montevallo in 1950. Initially, she served as a member of the faculty and the Director of Health and Physical Education. Through her dedication and love for what would become her university home for more than 42 years, Nazaretian provided the leadership to establish not only the professional certification program in the Department of Health and Physical Education, but also the programs of Campus and Community Recretion and Intramurals, Women's Athletics, Continuing Education, Community Service and Panhellenic programs.

Some of the many events she has coordinated and recruited include:
  • Organized the first Special Olympics competition in our state for 100 children at Athens State College in 1968
  • Athens Area Director for Special Olympics, which includes five counties for 25 years
  • Recognized by Governor Wallace in 1983, who declared "Angie Nazaretian Day" for her efforts with special children
  • Acknowledged as an Outstanding Volunteer by the Kennedy Foundation for her work with the Special Olympics Program
  • Served on the Alabama Special Olympics Board of Directors for 25 years
  • Achieved 25 years service on the Governor's Commission on Physical Fitness Board
  • Influenced the improvement of fitness training and competition for all handicapped individuals through service on numerous State and Regional Boards
  • Ardently supported the Alabama Senior Games - an 18-sport competition for people over 50 years of age
  • Established a certified Health, Physical Education, and Recreation Program at Athens College in 1958
  • Responsible for the introduction and development of the Special Olympics Program in Alabama - a program that is now 43 years old
  • Provided Special Olympian training with the opportunity to participate/officiate in Track and Field, Bowling and Basketball. Dr. Nazaretian has coordinated local, district, state, and national competitions.
  • Officiated and provided administrative conferences for women as leader for numerous sports
  • Honored by the NAGWS (National Association of Girls' and Women's Sports) with "Sports Spirit Award", Alabama Special Olympics Administrator of the Year Award", "Director of the Year", and the ASAHPERD has named their "Lay Award" for her
  • Designated as the Director and Coordinator of the First Women's Sports Conference (NAGWS) Hosted at Athens State College the first statewide High School Girls' Sports Day in Track and Field
  • Continues to volunteer with the Director of Parks and Recreation and other city officials to renovate and upgrade neighborhood parks for everyone to enjoy
  • Dedicated 50 years of her life to the field of higher education Carried the Olympic Torch through Limestone County on its journey to Atlanta Appointed Chair of the Big Springs Memorial Park Restoration
  • Serves on the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program Board of Directors
  • Engages citizens of all ages in fund-raising efforts for 19 United Way agencies
  • Coordinates efforts to raise money for renovating and furnishing the Veterans Museum to display memorabilia and educational resources
Dr. Nazaretian has unselfishly given of herself, her time, and her talents "beyond the call of duty" to help others. As a retiree, she has devoted her life to helping others and sharing life-long experiences.