TCU kinesiology graduate Elliott Hill ’86 was recently appointed CEO of Nike. Although he graduated before the kinesiology department became part of Harris College, his success underscores the lasting value of a kinesiology degree in today’s dynamic sports and wellness industry.
Kinesiology and Nike’s Shared Philosophy of Movement
Nike’s brand philosophy—that every human is an athlete — aligns with the core tenets of kinesiology, emphasizing the significance of movement in everyday life. This connection highlights the program’s relevance and its ability to prepare students for various careers related to physical activity and health.
A kinesiology education from TCU offers students a comprehensive understanding of human movement, biomechanics and the science of physical activity. This solid foundation equips graduates with the necessary skills to promote health and wellness across diverse populations. The department's programs emphasize hands-on learning and practical applications, enabling students to enhance athletic performance, design effective training programs and advocate for healthy lifestyles within their communities.
Hill, who has also served on the TCU Board of Trustees for over 10 years, continued his education beyond his undergraduate degree by pursuing a master’s in sports administration. This effectively integrated his kinesiology background with business principles, enabling him to build a successful career in the sports industry which has culminated in his current role at Nike.
Preparing Students for Careers in Health and Wellness
Like Hill, many students in the kinesiology department are actively building their careers across various sectors. Professor Phil Esposito, Ph.D., and third-year Ph.D. in Health Sciences student Sunil Prajapati noted that students often pursue graduate degrees in physical therapy and occupational therapy, as well as careers in coaching, sports management and health promotion.
Students’ experiences in the program have equipped them with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate these diverse paths. Just as Hill exemplifies the potential of the field of kinesiology, these students, too, are eager to contribute to the world of physical activity and wellness in meaningful ways.
Esposito, who is an associate professor of professional practice and the department’s undergraduate program director, highlighted the interdisciplinary nature of kinesiology, explaining that the curriculum not only covers physical education but also incorporates elements from health sciences and business.
“Our students are not just learning theories in the classroom; they are applying their knowledge in real-world settings, whether that’s through internships, lab work or community outreach programs,” Esposito noted.
This comprehensive approach allows graduates to adapt to various roles in the evolving fields of health and fitness.
Prajapati, research engineer and coordinator at TCU’s Locomotor Performance Laboratory, echoed this sentiment, sharing that his involvement in research has enhanced his understanding of biomechanics and its connection to health and wellness.
“It’s one thing to study movement,” said Prajapati. “It’s another to see it in action.”
Connecting Business and Health
Students in the Harris College’s kinesiology department also benefit from a range of practical experiences that are vital to their education. The curriculum, which integrates health sciences and business alongside physical education, ensures students are well-equipped for a multitude of professional paths.
Through internships and field placements, students work in real-world environments, applying theoretical knowledge while still in school. Additionally, community engagement projects empower them to advocate for health and wellness initiatives in diverse populations, further enhancing their learning. These hands-on experiences reinforce classroom concepts and prepares graduates for the demands of their chosen careers in the health and fitness sectors.
Elliott Hill’s journey from kinesiology graduate to intern to CEO of Nike exemplifies the lasting impact of a TCU kinesiology education. His achievements not only highlight the program’s relevance in the sports and wellness industry but also serve as inspiration current students who are actively building their own careers.
As Esposito emphasized, “The sense of community [in the kinesiology program] is strong. We are all working toward the same goal: to make a positive impact on people’s lives through physical activity.”