During his 27 years at Redeemer, Dr. John Byl, Professor and Chair of Physical Education/Kinesiology, has promoted healthy living in the classroom, in the community and beyond. At a ceremony to mark his retirement from full-time teaching, he was recognized for his extensive contributions in all these areas. John earned a Master’s of Human Kinetics from the University of Windsor and a PhD from the State University of New York in Buffalo. He joined Redeemer’s faculty in 1986 and since then has taught in both the Kinesiology and Physical Education Department and the Education Department. In addition to his teaching, John has coached badminton and the men’s and women’s volleyball teams. Over the last few decades, John has explored research interests in Canadian sport history, the philosophy of sport, active living lifestyles, and intramural and tournament organization. He has authored or edited 15 books, authored 11 book chapters and been published in academic journals, conference proceedings, and popular magazines such as Christian Courier. Earlier in 2013, a second edition of his Christian Paths to Health and Wellness was published. This widely used college textbook was co-edited with Dr. Peter Walters of Wheaton College. Dr. Byl has also been recognized for his work on many community projects promoting fitness. A member of the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association Hall of Fame, he was inducted into the Hamilton Sport Hero Banner series in 2011, and earlier this year was awarded a Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Medal. In his remarks at the ceremony, Dr. Doug Needham, Provost and Vice President Academic concluded his remarks with this tribute: “John, I’m thankful that God has used you to promote participation in physical activity in our community and to instruct and mentor hundreds and hundreds of Redeemer students throughout the last 27 years. You have been a blessing to whatever community you’ve been called to serve, and I especially thank you for all that you have contributed to Redeemer University College.” Dr. John Byl officially retires at the end of the Fall 2013 term. All of those communities which have been blessed by John’s contributions thank him and wish him all the very best in his next stage of service.