We’re excited to spotlight Dr. Craig Parkes, a proud graduate of UNCG’s EdD in Kinesiology program (Class of 2018), who recently earned tenure and promotion to Associate Professor at the University of South Alabama. Dr. Parkes serves as the Undergraduate Coordinator for Health and Physical Education and Faculty Advisor for the Health and Physical Education Majors Club.
Dr. Parkes credits much of his professional success to the foundation built through his experience at UNCG. Coming from a teaching background, he shared that the research and dissertation component of the program was instrumental in achieving tenure. “Knowing about publication expectations, impact factors, and being able to design and implement high quality research helped me to get a lot of papers published, with many in top impact factor journals such as Physical Education and Sport Pedagogy and the Journal of Teaching in Physical Education.”
When asked what continues to stand out about his EdD in KIN journey, Dr. Parkes emphasized the lasting mentorship and support from the UNCG faculty. “The faculty were really supportive, and they’re still great mentors even after graduating back in 2018. I always enjoy catching up with them at conferences.”
Reflecting on this milestone, Dr. Parkers shared that with tenure and promotion comes more responsibility as he now serves on the department’s tenure and promotion committee, mentors new and incoming faculty, and contributes to several university committees. “I’m excited that I get to work here now until I retire,” he said. “I love working here. I have great students and have always been well supported at the university.”
To learn more about Dr. Parkes and his recent accomplishments, visit the University of South Alabama feature on Facebook.
Visit our website if you are interested in learning more about the EdD in KIN program.