On November 18, the College of Health and Human Services will host the 2021 Health and Human Services Hero Awards to recognize individuals who are making a bold difference right here in the Central Valley. We will highlight the ten honorees in our Heroes Blog Series.

SBrown2Name: Scott Brown 

Occupation:  Athletics Director, Thomas Jefferson Middle School, Madera Unified School District 

Nominated by: Central California Children’s Institute 

Scott Brown knows firsthand how impactful physical education, literacy and nutrition can be in a child’s life. As the athletics director and a physical education teacher at Thomas Jefferson Middle School in Madera Unified School District, Brown’s passion propels his work forward. 

His journey into the profession was sparked by a childhood experience that left a lasting impact on him. After incorrectly being diagnosed with epilepsy at a young age, Brown was treated with high amounts of medication that fogged much of his memory. Later, and after many doctor visits, Brown’s parents discovered his issues were due in large part to his diet and food sensitivities. He went off the epilepsy medications and replaced it with a nutritious diet. A short time later, Brown’s health significantly improved and he began to excel in youth sports, which ultimately led to a successful coaching career after high school. 

Now, as an educator, Brown is dedicated to making sure his students have the proper education, knowledge and nutrition to take care of themselves in the long run. 

“Taking care of myself, both physically and nutritionally, saved my life,” Brown said. “Now it is my passion to continue to try to help educate and inspire the youth of today to be aware of the power they have over their own bodies.” 

Brown’s “whole child” approach to teaching also focuses on the mind and spirit of the student, as he strives to also help them improve their social-emotional skills, in and outside of the classroom. 

Since earning his bachelor’s degree in kinesiology (with an emphasis in physical education), Brown has remained connected to his former Fresno State faculty, which has opened doors for collaborative learning opportunities for current physical education students. Brown is a frequent guest presenter in physical education and credential courses, where he shares his expertise and experience as an educator in the field. 

He says Fresno State shaped his life for the better.

“I would not be the man or employee that I am today without the education and postgraduate support I received from Fresno State,” Brown said. “Through professional connections, I continue to be impressed with what the University is doing for the youth and how the college continues to lift up graduates to be a success in their own lives.”  

The 2021 Health and Human Services Hero Awards, which celebrates heroes from each of the seven departments, as well as centers and institutes within our college, will be held virtually this year. For more information on the event, contact Beth Wilkinson at bwilkinson@csufresno.edu.