Dowlat Nikmanesh was the first Iranian woman to achieve a doctorate in Physical Education. She earned her PhD from an American university and, upon returning to Iran, devoted herself to teaching at the University of Tehran.
Born in 1313 SH (1934–1935 CE) in Yazd, she was one of four children of Jamshid Mavandad Nikmanesh Khorramshahi and Morvarid Khodayar Hokhti Jopari. Her family moved to Tehran early in her life, where she completed her primary and secondary education at the Giv and Anoushiravan schools. During her school years, she won gold and silver medals in sports competitions, demonstrating her talent and dedication.
After passing the university entrance exam, she attended the University of Tehran, earning her bachelor’s degree in physical education. She began teaching at both a public high school and the university, while continuing to pursue her passion for sports. Seeking further advancement, she went to the University of Washington, D.C. and earned her PhD.
Although opportunities existed to remain in the U.S., Nikmanesh returned to Iran in 1358 SH (1979–1980 CE), joining the University of Tehran as a faculty member. She was also a member of Iran’s national teams in volleyball and discus throw and contributed as a coach and referee. Moreover, she was a founding member of the Zoroastrian Students’ Association and held a master’s degree in sociology.
In her later years, she spent time in solitude and, for a period, in a nursing home. She passed away at the age of 83 on 30 Azar 1396 SH (21 December 2017 CE), after battling Alzheimer’s. May her soul rest in eternal peace.
