Rate My Professor Terry DeWitt

Dr. Terry DeWitt serves as Professor and Chair of the Department of Kinesiology at Ouachita Baptist University, where he also directs Graduate Studies in Kinesiology. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Arkansas (2003), M.S.E. from Henderson State University (1999), M.Ed. from Nicholls State University (1990), and B.S.E. from Ouachita Baptist University (1988). Certified as an athletic trainer (AT) and ACSM exercise physiologist (EP-C), DeWitt joined the Ouachita faculty in 1999, initially as director of the Athletic Training Education Program within biological sciences. He later became professor of kinesiology and leisure studies, leading the department's evolution from recreation and leisure pursuits toward biomechanics and exercise science emphases. Under his leadership, the department now offers pre-professional tracks preparing students for graduate programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy, physician assistant studies, chiropractic care, and athletic training. DeWitt developed Ouachita's Master of Science in Exercise Science program to align with evolving certification requirements for exercise physiologists.

With over 30 years in athletic training since certification in 1991, DeWitt has authored two peer-reviewed journal articles, including 'The Level of Medical Services and Secondary School-Aged Athletes: A Report from the National Athletic Trainers' Association High School Athletic Trainers' Committee' (2012). His honors include induction into the Arkansas Athletic Trainers Association Hall of Fame (2016) as the first sitting president so recognized, National Athletic Trainers' Association Most Distinguished Athletic Trainer (2012), Southwest Athletic Trainers' Association Most Distinguished Athletic Trainer (2012), NATA Service Award (2009), and Arkansas Athletic Trainer of the Year (2005). Appointed to the Arkansas State Licensing Board for Athletic Trainers since 2001 by three governors, he founded the Armed Forces Athletic Trainers' Society in 2003. A retired U.S. Army Reserve Colonel after 32 years—including two Iraq deployments—DeWitt received two Bronze Stars and the Legion of Merit. He advances public health via Ouachita's Gold Status Exercise is Medicine program and national presentations, such as at the American Academy of Pediatrics (2015).