The Practitioner’s Pivot: Balancing Ambition with Reality
Before enrolling at CSP Global, Dr. Daughtry’s life was a masterclass in dedication. A former collegiate football player, his passion for performance led him to a demanding role as a strength coach for a Division 1 college. While working a second job, the ambition to advance his career into academia grew, but the logistical challenges seemed immense.
“I chose CSP Global to give me the versatility to work and also achieve my doctorate.”
The 100% online format was critical, providing the flexibility he needed to manage his coaching responsibilities and rigorous work schedule without putting his career on hold.
From Applied Dissertation to Academic Impact
As a member of the second cohort, Dr. Daughtry was one of the first graduates from the EdD program. His dissertation, entitled “Isokinetic versus Isotonic Resistance Training: Defining the Mechanisms of Hypertrophy,” was motivated by his love for applied muscle development, muscle mechanics, and muscle physiology.
This deep dive into applied muscle physiology did more than fulfill a graduation requirement—it became the direct foundation for his new career. The rigorous applied dissertation process at CSP Global gave him the research credentials necessary to transition from coaching to academia, leading directly to his offer for a tenure-track position at Catawba College, where he is leading an impressive 25 IRB-approved research projects.
Dr. Logan Daughtry, CSP Kinesiology EdD graduate, teaching at Catawba College.
Most recently, he presented on four projects at ACSM National Conference, NSCA National Conference, and ECSS in Rimini, Italy.
As a faculty member at Catawba College, he now gives students “an opportunity to present, publish, and participate in experiential learning.”
Dr. Daughtry’s journey is a clear example of this career impact. For him, the EdD in Kinesiology provided a direct pathway from a hands-on coaching role to a tenure-track faculty position, opening up new opportunities in academic teaching and research.
Dr. Logan Daughtry at the NSCA National Conference in Kansas City, MO, on July 17, 2025.
A Word of Advice
His advice for current CSP Global students is to “stay persistent with your dreams. It might take a while, but it’s worth it.” Dr. Daughtry plans to stay in higher education for the foreseeable future and continue making an impact in the field.
Are You Ready for Your Own Career Pivot?
Like Dr. Daughtry, many practitioners, coaches, and clinicians have a passion for teaching and research? Dr. Daughtry’s story illustrates how the EdD in Kinesiology at CSP Global is specifically designed to help you transition into a leadership role in higher education. Learn more about our 100% online program and how you can start your own journey from practitioner to professor today.