Dorothy "Dot" Ann Shields

Dorothy Ann “Dot” Shields, retired associate professor emeritus from the University of Florida, College of Health and Human Performance died November 30, 2018.  She was born on September 7, 1925 in Crawfordsville to the late Roy D. and Hallie K. (Keller) Shields and moved to Gainsville, Florida in 1962 to join the University of Florida faculty.  She retired in 1993.

Ms. Shields graduated from Crawfordsville High School in 1943.  She received a bachelor’s degree in biological science from Indiana State University and a master’s degree from the University of North Carolina.  Before joining the University of Florida, Ms. Shields taught in the Indiana public schools and Rutgers University.

She taught at the University of Florida for 37 years during which she initiated the developed The Aquatic Minor program, planned and introduced several professional teaching courses in the aquatic field.  She also coached the synchronized swimming club for 13 years, and was Aquatic Director for the Division of Recreational Sports.

Ms. Shields was invited by the government of Costa Rica to serve as a guest professor at the UNIVERSIDAD NACIONAL.

Ms. Shields published several articles in state and national journals.  Due to recognition and leadership in the aquatic field, she was guest speaker at the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine Convention as well as the American Alliance of Health, Physical Education and Dance, and Florida AAHPERD Conventions.

She was an elected member of Mortar Board National College Honor Society in recognition of her high scholarship, leadership, and service.

She was an instructor for the American Red Cross for 50 years, served as chairman of the Aquatics Council of the American Alliance of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance and was listed in Who’s Who in Florida.

She was the receipt of many awards including The Florida Governor’s Council Leadership Award, the American Alliance of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, Aquatics Council’s highest award, the Meritorious Award.  She was a member of the First Christian Church.

She is survived by a sister, Betty Maze of rural Thorntown, IN; nephew, James Maze of rural Lebanon, IN; niece, Jane Maze Burgman of Boise, ID; and special friends, Sue and Dan Mountcastle of Crawfordsville, IN.

Visitation will be at Sanders Priebe Funeral Care, 315 S Washington Street in Crawfordsville, IN on Thursday, December 6, 2018 from 11:00am till the time of the celebration of life service at 12:00pm with Celebrant Amanda Atkins officiating.  Burial will follow at Oak Hill North Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given in her memory to the Animal Welfare League of Montgomery County, 1104 Big 4 Arch Rd, Crawfordsville, IN 47933.  Share memories and condolences online at www.sandersfuneralcare.com