Island University’s Dr. Frank Spaniol Named Texas A&M System Regents Professor

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A key member of Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi’s College of Education and Human Development, Dr. Frank Spaniol has been recognized by the Texas A&M University System (TAMUS) for his contributions and achievements in the field of sport and exercise science. An esteemed researcher, speaker, and former collegiate-level athlete and coach, his dedication to education has created a lasting impact at the Island University and beyond.

 “Dr. Spaniol is a highly engaged, student-centered, innovative, and extremely productive faculty member,” said Dr. David Scott, Dean of the College of Education and Human Development (COEHD). “He has an extraordinary record of excellence in teaching, research, and service at the university as well as to his profession and the community.”

 In honor of his decades of service in higher education and his innovations in educational technology in kinesiology, Spaniol was presented the TAMUS 2020-2021 Regents Professor Award, the highest honor that can be bestowed upon a TAMUS faculty member.

 “Such an honor is not the sole result of one individual, but rather it is the cumulative result of many individuals,” said Spaniol, Professor of Kinesiology. “Subsequently, I wish to thank all the students, faculty, and staff that contributed to making this award possible.”

 Spaniol joined Texas A&M-Corpus Christi as a professor in 2004, earning tenure in 2006. During his time at the Island University, Spaniol led the kinesiology program as it earned the title of Top Ten Best Online Master’s in Kinesiology Programs in the nation.

 “I love living in Corpus Christi and serving TAMU-CC,” Spaniol said. “The beauty of the Island campus, diversity of its culture, and warmth of its people makes TAMU-CC a very special place. I am committed to the Island University and consider it my home.”  

This is not the first award Spaniol has received as an Islander. In 2009, he was named Fellow of the National Strength and Conditioning Association. In 2014, he was recognized for his innovation in the field of educational technology and received an Outstanding Online Educator award. In 2016, he accepted the McNair Scholars Program Certificate of Achievement for his commitment as a mentor.

 In 2021, Spaniol received the university’s Excellence in Service Award for his leadership as a member of the Faculty Senate. From 2014-2019, Spaniol was elected to represent COEHD faculty as a senator, deputy speaker, and Faculty Senate speaker. He served as speaker for two terms, from 2017-2019.

 Spaniol has committed his time outside of the classroom to conducting research in the field of sport and exercise science. His research topics range from the physical fitness levels of K-12 students to optimum physical training for ROTC cadets, and how to best increase performance enhancement for numerous amateur and professional sports. Spaniol has been invited to present his research findings at Olympic Training Centers all around the world and was named to serve as the sports scientist for the Portuguese Davis Cup Tennis Team on three separate occasions. In addition, he currently serves as a senior contributor to SportsEdTV.

 “Making a difference in the lives of students is a driving force behind my passion for teaching, research, and service. I try to share life lessons to help them on their journey to realizing their own special purpose,” Spaniol said. “Working with students is my favorite part of being a professor.”