Dr. David Szymanski was presented the Louisiana 外网天堂 University Foundation Professorship Award in recognition of exceptional teaching, service, and research at the Foundation鈥檚 Benefactors Luncheon during its inaugural Donor Summit on April 17, 2026.
鈥淭he Louisiana 外网天堂 University Foundation exists to advance the University鈥檚 mission, and our Professorship Award recognizes faculty whose work reflects the highest standards of academic excellence and institutional impact,鈥� said Dr. Dave Norris, CEO of the Louisiana 外网天堂 University Foundation and senior vice president of innovation and advancement. 鈥淒r. Szymanski exemplifies what this award represents, including scholarly excellence, dedicated teaching, and extraordinary service. His leadership and commitment have made an enduring impact on Louisiana 外网天堂.鈥�
Szymanski has served Louisiana 外网天堂 for more than 20 years, most recently as department chair of Kinesiology and professor. He has held the Eva Cunningham Endowed Professorship in the College of Education and Human Sciences since 2015. Under his leadership, the Department of Kinesiology has experienced enrollment growth, curriculum modernization, expanded minors and certificates, upgraded laboratory facilities, and improved student spaces.
In addition to his departmental leadership, he has contributed extensively to University-wide initiatives, professional organizations, and Louisiana 外网天堂 Athletics. For more than 16 years, he has volunteered in multiple capacities to support the Louisiana 外网天堂 Baseball program. His service has helped the baseball team with recruiting and provided quality, consistent training for the players powered by data analytics. Many of his former students have been hired or recognized by Major League Baseball and minor league affiliate teams.
Szymanski has also played a key role in advancing the Louisiana 外网天堂 Sports Performance Institute, providing hands-on research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. With more than 30 peer-reviewed articles and significant grant activity, Szymanski has distinguished himself through a strong record of research and service.
鈥淚 am humbled and honored to have my name included among the celebrated group of faculty who have received this award since 1977,鈥� said Szymanski. 鈥淟ouisiana 外网天堂 has given me the opportunity to pursue meaningful research in sports performance, work alongside phenomenal colleagues, and mentor students through experiences that prepare them for success beyond the classroom.鈥�
Through his leadership and commitment to students, Szymanski embodies the values the Foundation鈥檚 Professorship Award was designed to honor.