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Ryan Barnhart

Ryan

Barnhart

Ryan Barnhart

Adjunct Faculty

Department
Research
Institution
Saybrook University
Email
Biography

Dr. Ryan Barnhart is a higher education leader, scholar-practitioner, and educator with expertise spanning academic innovation, student success, educational technology, organizational transformation, and health and wellness. He currently serves as a senior leader in academic technology, transformation, and implementation at Education Affiliates, where he leads technology initiatives across more than 35 campuses and works at the intersection of academic strategy, curriculum delivery, campus operations, and student outcomes.

Previously, Dr. Barnhart served as National Dean of Education for Education Affiliates and as Assistant Provost and Dean at Salem University, leading initiatives in academic operations, enrollment, retention, student success, accreditation, and organizational strategy. His academic experience includes teaching and doctoral mentorship across health sciences, higher education, sport management, and related disciplines.

Dr. Barnhart holds a Doctor of Health Science, a Master of Science in Exercise Science and Health Promotion, and a Bachelor of Science in Sport Management. His scholarship explores student success, health and wellness, faculty development, educational engagement, sociolinguistics, and strategies for improving the student experience.

Education History
Degree Institution Year
Bachelor of Science California University of Pennsylvania, California, PA 2008
Master of Science California University of Pennsylvania, California, PA 2009
Doctor of Health Science California University of Pennsylvania, California, PA
Professional Memberships
Role Organization
Member National Academy of Sports Medicine
Licenses
Performance Enhancement Specialist, National
Community Involvement
Role Organization
Volunteer Coach + Board Member First Tee of Pittsburgh
Question and Answer
Describe your teaching philosophy or your approach to working with students.

My teaching philosophy has always been to be the "guide on the side" for master's and doctoral students...it's your show, I'm just here to make sure we both don't get lost. I feel like I am able to utilize my background in sport and exercise science, particularly in coaching, to be effective as a supportive guide to students in their research endeavors and degree-seeking journey!
Provide a statement or philosophy regarding your professional practice.

I strongly believe in the science of fact. I am an evidence-based practitioner and believe in supporting research in a creative way while also keeping evidence-based practice and high level-of-evidence approaches to support research and outcomes for students. I believe that my background in health science education has provided me a wide range of health/psycho/social areas to support students in, and I look forward to lending my expertise in that manner.
Why did you choose to enter your professional area(s)?

Essentially, health science has been the "family business" for several generations in my family. It was a natural calling. I have always had a research and academic interest in health, sport, and exercise, particularly nutrition and the psychology around nutrition, coaching, and other aspects of health science.
What advice would you give a student entering Saybrook University?

Don't be afraid to ask questions, and don't be afraid to say yes to new challenges!
Curriculum Vitae
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