Colquhoun Named USA’s Sun Belt Conference Faculty of the Year

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Posted on February 18, 2025

Kerry Cohen

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University of South Alabama student-athletes honored Dr. Ryan Colquhoun as the University’s finalist for Sun Belt Conference Faculty of the Year during the Feb. 15 Jaguar basketball game at Mitchell Center. Student-athletes Rhyan Connolly (women’s soccer) and Sam Williams (football) presented the award to Colquhoun, reflecting the strong connections he has built with student-athletes.

Colquhoun, an assistant professor in the Department of Health, Kinesiology, and Sport in the  College of Education and Professional Studies, was nominated by student-athletes to become one of 13 faculty members across the conference recognized as 2023-24 Sun Belt Conference Faculty of the Year finalists.

The award honors faculty members who demonstrate exceptional teaching, mentorship and support for student-athletes. Colquhoun, who leads the Neuromuscular Physiology, Plasticity, and Performance (NP3) Laboratory, is known for integrating research and education in ways that directly benefit student-athletes. His work extends beyond the classroom, providing opportunities for students to engage in research, advising and performance-based initiatives that enhance their academic and athletic development.

"Athletics has always played a significant role in my life, shaping me both personally and professionally," Colquhoun said. "Being able to combine my passion for research and education with mentoring student-athletes is incredibly rewarding. Their dedication and work ethic inspire me every day, and I am truly honored to be recognized by them in this way."

Since arriving at South in 2019, Colquhoun has served as an academic advisor for more than 50 student-athletes, helping them balance rigorous coursework with athletic commitments. He has also led collaborative research efforts with Jaguar Athletics, including a project with South Alabama’s baseball team aimed at enhancing performance and injury prevention strategies.

"Dr. Colquhoun’s impact on student-athletes is evident not only through his teaching but also through his mentorship and research collaborations," said Dr. Paige Vitulli, NCAA faculty athletic representative and chair of the Department of Integrative Studies in the College of Education and Professional Studies. "This recognition speaks to his dedication and the respect he has earned from the student-athletes he works with."

Dr. Angela Barlow, dean of the College of Education and Professional Studies, emphasized the significance of Dr. Colquhoun’s work in shaping student success.

"The College of Education and Professional Studies is incredibly proud of Dr. Colquhoun’s recognition as South Alabama’s Sun Belt Conference Faculty of the Year," Barlow said. "His commitment to student-athletes both in and out of the classroom exemplifies the best of what we strive for — academic excellence, mentorship and meaningful impact."

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