Eddie Hill Named ODU’s Director of Undergraduate Research
July 18, 2019
Eddie Hill
Eddie Hill, an associate professor in the Park, Recreation and Tourism Studies Program in the Darden College of Education and Professional Studies, has been named Old Dominion University's director of undergraduate research.
"I'm excited to serve in this role to elevate undergraduate research's profile on campus and to establish new partnerships within and outside of the university," Hill said.
Among the areas Hill will focus on:
- Communicating with underrepresented colleges, departments and students about undergraduate research funding and participation in the Undergraduate Research Symposium.
- Promoting the development of undergraduate research courses across campus.
- Partnering with the Center for High Impact Practices to promote undergraduate research opportunities for students early in their academic careers.
- Advocating for research-intensive departmental honors programs.
- Expanding student participation in the Undergraduate Research Honors Scholars Program: https://www.odu.edu/honors/research/urhs
Hill earned a bachelor's degree in outdoor recreation and a master's degree in special education from ODU. He received his doctorate in recreation and tourism studies from the University of Utah. He has written multiple grants, published extensively and given numerous presentations at professional conferences, all targeting youth development and outdoor education.
Hill has worked as a special education teacher in middle schools. His research interests include youth development, resiliency, after-school programming, diabetes camps, therapeutic recreation and outdoor education. He has more than 20 years of experience as a challenge course facilitator and Outward Bound field staff member. He is also a Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP).
"The Perry Honors College has been home for the undergraduate research program for the past 11 years," said David Metzger, dean of the college. "Dr. Hill's grassroots approach, his experience with course-related and co-curricular research opportunities, study-abroad and study-away programs makes him the person to diversify and move our program forward."
