Returning Home: A Journey of Passion and Dedication
Dr. Ashlyne Elliott
The University of Houston welcomes back one of its own, Dr. Ashlyne Elliott, a dedicated and passionate faculty member whose journey through the world of athletic training and kinesiology has come full circle. With a rich background in education, research, and professional experience, Dr. Elliott is poised to make a significant impact on the university community.
Educational and Professional Background
Dr. Elliott’s journey began at UH, where she completed her undergraduate degree in kinesiology. Initially considering careers in physical therapy or physician assistant studies, her path took a decisive turn towards athletic training. “I knew I wanted to do something healthcare related. I just wasn’t exactly sure what,” she recalls. Influenced by mentors like Dr. Mike Cottingham and Dr. Josh Yellen, she discovered a passion for athletic healthcare, leading her to pursue a master’s degree in athletic training at the University of Houston, graduating as part of the second cohort in 2017.
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Her professional journey is marked by diverse experiences, including working with the adaptive athletics program, completing an athletic training residency specializing in orthopedic rehabilitation at Texas Health Resources in Fort Worth, and serving as a teaching assistant at Texas Christian University. Her academic pursuits continued with a PhD in kinesiology from Baylor University, where she also contributed to the athletic training program and conducted research on wellness and burnout in athletic trainers and students.
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Returning to UH
The opportunity to return to UH as a faculty member was one Dr. Elliott couldn’t pass up. With her husband, Blake, also a Houston native, they embraced the chance to come back to their roots. At UH, she now teaches therapeutic interventions and clinical education courses in the Department of Health and Human Performance, bringing her wealth of experience and passion for athletic training to the classroom. “My husband and I just couldn’t turn down the opportunity for me to come back, contribute to the program that helped develop me, and just get to be back in the Houston area,” she says.
Teaching Philosophy and Approach
As a faculty member, Dr. Elliott’s teaching philosophy centers on understanding students’ learning styles and creating an engaging, blended learning environment. “I usually like to kind of do some brief surveys of students, like, hey, how do you learn best, that kind of thing, so I can try to implement as much as possible,” she notes. She emphasizes the importance of interactive activities, mini-lectures, and the use of technology to cater to different learning preferences. By incorporating surveys to gauge students’ needs and providing supplemental resources, she ensures that each student has the opportunity to succeed.
Personal Background and Interests
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Born in Dallas and raised in Kingwood, Houston has always been home for this Dr. Elliott. She enjoys an active lifestyle, playing tennis and golf, and spending time with family. Her faith is an important aspect of her life, and she looks forward to engaging with faith-based groups on campus. Alongside her husband, a sports enthusiast, they are excited to immerse themselves in Houston’s vibrant sports scene once again. “We definitely like to be active when we can. I like to play tennis, so he braves the tennis court with me and does his best,” she shares. They also have a cat named Graycie and an Australian shepherd named Shadow, that add tremendous joy to their household.
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Excitement for the Future
As she settles back into the Houston area, Dr. Elliot is eager to contribute to the program that shaped her career and explore opportunities on campus, from collaborating with other HHP programs to participating in faith-based groups. Her commitment to UH and its community is unwavering, and she looks forward to making a lasting impact through her teaching, research, and involvement in campus life.
The University of Houston is not just gaining a faculty member but welcoming back a dedicated and passionate alumna whose journey has been molded by a love for athletic training, education, and the Houston community. Her return marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with promise and potential.
Dr. Ashlyne Elliot's Directory Profile