University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh
10/02/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/02/2024 15:29
UWO kinesiology assistant professor, Petit, honored as Outstanding Young Alumni
Kyle Petit's journey into the world of athletic training and kinesiology began at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, where he earned his undergraduate degree in athletic training. In 2022, Petit, '14, returned to his alma mater as faculty member, teaching and mentoring future health care professionals. Petit, of Greenville, will be presented with a 2024 University of Wisconsin Oshkosh Outstanding Young Alumni Award on Homecoming weekend later this month.
Kim Calver, who was once Petit's instructor at UWO, said she and other faculty members who knew Petit were "ecstatic" to have him back as a colleague.
Kyle Petit discusses data with a student.
"He made an indelible impression on his peers, the underclassmen he taught and mentored, and everyone who has the opportunity to help him develop into an athletic trainer," said Calver, an assistant professor and clinical coordinator of the graduate Athletic Training program at UWO.
Calver remembers Petit's drive to excel as a student.
"As an undergraduate at UWO, Kyle's leadership and professional potential were apparent from the very beginning," she said, adding that when he was a sophomore, she had nominated him for the Wisconsin Athletic Trainers' Association Founding Fathers Scholarship, which he won. The award celebrated leadership, volunteerism and academic excellence.
"He presented an undergraduate research project at the state athletic training conference," she said, "and excelled in the classroom and in clinical education."
After UWO, Petit continued his education at Illinois State University, where he earned his Master of Science in Athletic Training degree, before pursuing his doctorate at Michigan State University. During this time, he honed his skills as a certified athletic trainer while also diving into research.
Since 2018, Petit has emerged as a prolific researcher, authoring or contributing to 16 peer-reviewed publications and securing grant funding for numerous projects, particularly focusing on sport-related concussions. Petit's body of scholarly work has significantly enriched the understanding of concussion assessment and rehabilitation, impacting clinical practices nationwide.
Kyle Petit was a prolific student researcher and presenter.
Rachel Johnson, chair of the kinesiology department at the University of Mary, where Petit taught for two years before coming back to UWO, praised his professionalism and mentorship.
"Kyle exemplified professionalism both inside and outside of the classroom," she said. "His dedication to ethical practices and continuous improvement set a high standard for our students."
At UWO, Petit wasted no time in making his mark.
Robert Sipes, a faculty mentor and colleague, said, "In his first year back, Petit led the efforts to develop a unified research lab (SPIRL Sport Performance and Injury Research Laboratory) for our department and mentored several students in research projects."
As an active research mentor, Petit has helped numerous graduate students and undergraduate students produce papers and presentations.
"Helping to develop the next generation of researchers who will contribute knowledge in untold ways is one way Kyle impacts his students and the reputation of this institution," Calver said. "His determination to excel is still evident. Student success is his primary concern in and out of the classroom."
Petit's approach to teaching prioritizes critical thinking and real-world application, ensuring that students can connect their learning to practical scenarios.
One of the most fulfilling aspects of Petit's role as an educator is witnessing his students achieve their career aspirations.
Kyle Petit, second from right, with his son Archie, and his wife Rachel with son, Stanley.
"There is no greater accomplishment as a college educator than when a student lands their dream job," he said. "It is an even greater feeling when I am able to personally help get them that job. Imagine, seeing someone work extremely hard to achieve one goal they had since they were a kid. To get to be part of that goal is indescribable."
Beyond his teaching and research contributions, Petit is deeply involved in service to both the university and the wider athletic training community. He actively participates in university-wide committees and engages with local high school groups to inspire future students. His involvement with the National Athletic Trainers' Association further exemplifies his dedication, as he plays a critical role in selecting national service award winners.
Petit's own reflections on his time at UWO reveal a profound sense of gratitude. He attributes much of his success to the supportive environment fostered by faculty who genuinely cared for their students.
"Without hesitation, I can say that the people I interacted with as a student at UWO impacted me the most," Petit said. "The level of care each professor had to their students was incredible…Getting to come back here as an assistant professor…was a no-brainer. UWO was, is, and will always be home for me."
The UW Oshkosh Alumni Association will celebrate the talents and successes of 13 alumni during Homecoming weekend Oct. 18-19. There are four receiving the Distinguished Alumni Award, two recognized with Outstanding Service Awards and seven, including Petit, being honored with the Outstanding Young Alumni Award.
Learn more:
Study Kinesiology and Athletic Training at UWO