Alex Garn Named Interim Director of the School of Kinesiology

The LSU College of Human Sciences & Education named Alex Garn, PhD, as interim director of the LSU School of Kinesiology. Garn will begins this role immediately, following the retirement of Director Melinda Solmon, PhD.

“Please join me in welcoming Dr. Alex Garn to this leadership role in the LSU School of Kinesiology,” said LSU College of Human Sciences & Education Dean Roland Mitchell. “Kinesiology has consistently been one of the fastest growing majors at LSU. Dr. Garn will keep a sharp focus on serving our students while furthering our important scholarship and research. I appreciate his leadership and commitment to our program during this time of unprecedented growth and change.”

Garn is the Karen Wax Schmitt and Family Endowed Professor. As interim director he will oversee the units, faculty, and staff within the School of Kinesiology. The school provides undergraduate and graduate programs for students interested in the art and science of human movement and the business of sport, offering two bachelor’s degrees: the Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and the Bachelor of Science in Sport Administration. Kinesiology is the declared academic major for more than 2,100 LSU students and offers laboratory classes, field experiences and internships that give students hands-on experiences that prepare them for the workplace and for advanced studies. Graduates go on to successful careers in the health and fitness industry, corporate wellness, sport agencies and businesses, athletic administration, and K-12 educational settings. Additionally, students can complete requirements for entry in professional and graduate programs including physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant, medical school, and other allied health programs. 

At the graduate level, the school offers a Master of Science in Kinesiology with three areas of specialization: exercise physiology, motor behavior, and pedagogy and psychological sciences, as well as a Doctor of Philosophy in Kinesiology in the three previously mentioned concentrations and in Sport Management. The school has a new Master of Science in Athletic Training degree program, as well as a new Master of Science in Sport Management, available on-campus and online. The School of Kinesiology is a member of the American Kinesiology Association.

“I am very excited for the opportunity to serve as the School of Kinesiology interim director. Melinda has provided outstanding leadership to the School of Kinesiology for over a decade and has been an exceptional mentor to me personally since I arrived in 2007. I look forward to working closely with Dean Mitchell, the Dean’s office, faculty, staff, and students to advance the mission of LSU,” said Garn. 

Garn received his PhD from Indiana University and joined the LSU School of Kinesiology faculty in 2007. He is currently a Professor and division leader of the Pedagogy and Psychological Sciences program area of study. Garn’s research investigates motivational and emotional determinants of health behaviors, learning, and psychological well-being. He has a strong interest in exploring substantive methodological issues associated with the application of motivational theory to improve quality of life. His secondary research focus explores the use of schools as a point of intervention for children’s health and well-being. He is highly engaged in professional service and currently serves on multiple editorial boards. He’s very active in mentoring graduate students at LSU with interests in pedagogy and the psychology of physical activity. 

About SOK

The LSU School of Kinesiology (SOK) advances the understanding of physical activity, sport, and health to optimize the quality of life for diverse populations through excellence in teaching, learning, discovery, and engagement. SOK offers a BS, MS, Online MS, PhD, and two certificate options. Graduates go on to successful careers in the health and fitness industry, corporate wellness, sport agencies and businesses, athletic administration, and K-12 educational settings. SOK is part of the College of Human Sciences & Education.  

Visit the School of Kinesiology at lsu.edu/chse/kinesiology