Reinstate the NIU Martial Arts Classes

As an NIU alum, I think that martial arts classes are an excellent part of the physical education at Northern. Reinstate these classes, post haste!

The martial arts class has build confidence in myself both physically and mentally. I enjoy learning martial arts. The classes have helped reduce my stress and martial arts has always been a dream of mine but growing up as a kid and even now I can't afford it and with the university canceling the classes I can no longer pursue martial arts

Martial arts are important. Not only is it great exercise, but it also teaches self-defense, establishes self-esteem, and it teaches discipline.

These classes not only teach valuable skills, but they are rich in cultural history. Please change your stance and offer these classes again, NIU.

I learned about culture, cuisine, history, language all while learning how to protect myself and others and be a morally and socially responsible person. I can think of dozens of classes at NIU that don't do half of this to really prepare students to be decent human beings after graduation.

As a formal northern student I can tell you this is one of the best offers given via course work in the KNPE department, as well as extra curricular and town. The instructors are excellent and it would be a shame to loose such quality and excellence that the university strives for.

I trained with Master Augsbuger in the early 2000's and can attest to his proficiency in both the martial arts and as an educator. What he has to offer in terms of training is superior to 95% of what else is out there in the martial arts world.

As a former student at NIU and a student under Micheal Augsburger, and a lifelong martial artist (bronze at IBJJF World Masters 2013) I want to say Michael's classes are excellent and have helped me to stand for what is right and preserve peace with confidence in many situations.

To Whom it May Concern; The NIU Martial Arts classes are a vital part of the NIU courses. As a University Honors nursing student, the KNPE Mixed Martial Arts course provided me with an outlet for stress, a regular fitness routine, and a place to make great friendships. I developed increased mental and physical flexibility, stamina, and overall good health through this course. The KNPE Mixed Martial Arts course was a perfect fit for my busy nursing school schedule and allowed me to earn the right number of credits to graduate. In this course, I learned self-defense tailored to my size and strength from a patient and very knowledgeable martial arts master, Professor Michael Augsburger. He always put in his extra time and energy before and after classes to help me and other students properly develop our techniques. His devotion to student success is evident from the many students and alumni who feel honored to call him Master. The martial arts previously taught at NIU are a tradition handed down over the years from master to student. These arts taught students rich cultural histories including foreign languages, cultural sensitivity, respect for authority, self-control, and perseverance. I am signing this petition to express how deeply important the NIU Martial Arts courses are to NIU and to ask that you reinstate them so that future students may partake in these health- and grade-improving, time-honored traditions. Thank you for your time, Kathryn Dennison

I enjoyed taking the classes while attending niu and believe it to be a positive influence during that time.

Bring back martial arts to NIU!