Dr. Conkle is originally from Fort Payne, AL. He spent his undergraduate years at Pensacola State College, Darton State College, and the University of North Alabama, which he graduated from in 2015. He played baseball for each institution and eventually went on to pursue his Master’s in Sport Management at UNA which he graduated with in 2017. Following receipt of that degree he pursued an additional Master’s in Theological Studies at Liberty University, which he graduated with in 2020. In early 2023, he completed his PhD in Sport Management from Troy University where he served as a Doctoral Graduate Teaching Assistant in the School of Hospitality, Sport and Tourism Management.

During his time at UNA, Dr. Conkle first worked as an intern for the UNA Athletic Department followed by serving as a Graduate Assistant for Game Operations and Special Events. He was then promoted to Assistant for Game Operations and Special Events and eventually elevated to Manager for Athletic Operations and Facilities. In this role, he aided in UNA’s transition to Division I through facilitating the strategic plan, served in project management for multiple renovations in historic Flowers Hall, hosted various Athletics Championships including the Division II National Golf Championship at Robert Trent Jones of the Shoals, and was oversight for all game day and facility processes. Additionally, he coordinated the Connect1 Program which was designed to raise awareness for individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts through building interpersonal relationships and encouraging face to face interaction, and received the 2016 NCAA Division II Award of Excellence for its mission and efforts.

While serving as an adjunct instructor in the Health, Physical Education and Recreation Department at UNA, Dr. Conkle discovered a passion for teaching and the opportunity to impact the lives of students. He believes the Christian worldview should influence how one understands competition, coaching philosophy, the concept of group dynamics and the use of abilities; therefore, it should shape the purpose and meaning of sports. 

Dr. Conkle and his wife, Callan, have two sons and an other child on the way. He lists traveling, spending time with family/friends, church and the outdoors as other activities he enjoys and participates in regularly. 

Education:

PhD in Sport Management, Troy University
Master’s in Theological Studies, Liberty University

Verse:

Philippians 2:3, “Do nothing from selfish ambition, but in humility consider others more significant than yourselves.”