Dawn Norwood, Ph.D.

Biography

Dr. Dawn M. Norwood is an accomplished higher education leader, scholar, and educator specializing in the sociology of sport. Currently serving as an associate professor, Dr. Norwood has over 15 years of experience as a faculty member, administrator, and graduate program director. She has been appointed interim department chair for fall 2025 and is committed to contributing to academic governance, student success, and faculty development.

Dr. Norwood earned her Ph.D. in the Sociology of Sport from the University of Tennessee. Her academic career includes significant roles at Wingate University, where she served as Assistant Dean for the School of Sport Sciences and Director of the master of arts in Sport Management program, successfully launching the institution’s first 100% online graduate program.

A seasoned scholar, Dr. Norwood’s research explores critical social issues in sport, including diversity, race, and inclusion. Her work has been published in peer-reviewed journals such as Kinesiology Review, International Journal of Aquatic Research and Education, and Sport Science Review. She has also contributed book chapters on intersectionality and sport and actively presents at national and international conferences.

Recognized for her leadership and service, Dr. Norwood received the 2021 Martin Luther King, Jr. Faculty Recognition Award and has served on editorial boards and professional committees. She has been a dedicated mentor to graduate students, having chaired multiple theses and dissertations focusing on contemporary challenges in sport management.

She is a member of the North American Society for the Sociology of Sport and other professional organizations dedicated to advancing inclusion in sport. Dr. Norwood is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Education

Ph.D., Sociology of Sport, University of Tennessee
M.S. Sport Administration, Grambling State University
B.A. Corporate Communication, Northern Illinois University