Kyle Maurice Woosnam

Dr. Kyle Maurice Woosnam is a key figure in the field of Parks, Recreation & Tourism Management at the University of Georgia. With a distinguished career that spans over a decade, Dr. Woosnam has made significant contributions to the understanding and development of community-based tourism and park management. His academic journey began with a PhD in Recreation and Parks from Texas A&M University, where he also served as a tenured faculty member from 2008 to 2016. During his tenure at Texas A&M, he established himself as a respected scholar and educator, earning numerous awards for his innovative research and dedication to teaching. Since joining the University of Georgia in 2016, Dr. Woosnam has continued to advance his research interests in community development, tourism, and park management. As the director of the Dr. Woosnam Lab, he leads a team of researchers in exploring the complex interactions between communities and tourism, aiming to foster sustainable development practices that benefit both local populations and visitors. His work often emphasizes the importance of community involvement in tourism planning and the role of parks in enhancing quality of life. Dr. Woosnam's research has been widely published in leading academic journals, and he is frequently invited to speak at international conferences and workshops. His insights into the socio-cultural impacts of tourism have been instrumental in shaping policies and practices that promote responsible tourism development. He is particularly interested in how tourism can be leveraged as a tool for community empowerment and economic growth, while also preserving cultural heritage and natural resources. In addition to his research, Dr. Woosnam is deeply committed to teaching and mentoring the next generation of scholars and practitioners in the field. He is known for his engaging teaching style and his ability to inspire students to think critically about the challenges and opportunities in tourism and park management. His courses often incorporate real-world case studies and field experiences, providing students with practical skills and knowledge that are directly applicable to their future careers. Dr. Woosnam's contributions to the field have been recognized with numerous accolades, reflecting his impact as both a researcher and an educator. His work continues to influence the way communities and policymakers approach tourism and park management, ensuring that these sectors contribute positively to societal well-being and environmental sustainability.