Recreation, Parks and Tourism faculty member earns prestigious award

Carroll-Joshua

The Resort and Commercial Recreation Association (RCRA) has presented its 2016 Outstanding Professor Award to Radford University Assistant Professor Josh Carroll.

Carroll, who teaches in the university’s Department of Recreation, Parks and Tourism, received the award at the association’s national conference, held Nov. 5-8 in Palm Beach, Florida.

“It was a tremendous honor to be recognized by such an outstanding professional organization, among such innovative people,” Carroll said.

The RCRA award recognizes commitment to, and excellence in, the delivery of education for the commercial recreation profession.

Nominees must be currently employed by a college or university for no less than five years, be an active member of RCRA for no less three years, encourage students to participate in RCRA and remain involved in their academic growth, internship experience and professional growth.

Carroll is in his fourth year at Radford University.

“In recognition of his excellent delivery of education and relevant research coupled with his continued investment and mentorship of students studying for recreation professions, the Resort and Commercial Recreation Association applaud Dr. Carroll and his ongoing efforts in our field,” the association said in a news release.

Through the Recreation, Parks and Tourism department’s Tourism Institute, Carroll leads an annual expedition to the Bahamas where students engage in excursions to learn about coral reef management, beach use, island tourism and trends in marine and charter boat tourism.

Carroll also is co-creator of Semester on the New, a Fall 2015 course in which participating students spent eight days learning while canoeing and camping along the New River.

"Dr. Carroll is highly successful in creating immersive teaching opportunities for our students,” said Edward Udd, professor and chair of Department of Recreation, Parks and Tourism. “His dedication to students is exemplary. This award is well-deserved."

RCRA provides and promotes professional development, creative resources and networking for professionals, students, educators, vendors and others dedicated to delivering services in the recreation industry.

Dec 6, 2016
Chad Osborne
540-831-7761
caosborne@radford.edu