Degrees
- B.S. Recreation, University of Florida
- M.S. Recreation, Indiana University
- M.Ed. Biology Education, University of Florida
- Ph.D. Instruction and Curriculum, University of Florida
Teaching Specialties
- RM 2000 Nature and Youth
- RM 2100 Leisure in Society
- RM 2410 Recreation Program Planning
- RM 3315 Career Development
- RM 4210 Senior Seminar
- Risk Manager for OEE Trips
- PE Geocaching
- PE Backpacking
Hobbies
- Hiking (I am currently section hiking the Appalachian Trail...trail name Flamingo)
- Backpacking
- Camping
- All sports and activities that are related to the water
- Florida Football (GO GATORS!!!)
How did you discover Appalachian State University?
"I didn't. App State found me. It brought me back to my roots of teaching Outdoor Education."
What is your favorite thing about Boone?
"My colleagues, my students and the hiking (especially the AT)!"
What most excites you about your field?
"RM is a cornerstone of mental and physical wellness...one of my favorite quotes is "Play is not a luxury it is a necessity" and as RM professionals we get to live that out every single day!"
What are some of the highlights of your career?
"Working for AmeriCorps as a historical interpreter for the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial Celebration on the Missouri River, working with the National Wildlife Federation residential camp program, working for the Florida Park Service and Florida Division of Forestry, and my work in outdoor/environmental education. I've had alot of unique jobs...so you'll have to ask my how I met Hall & Oates while racing cars..."
Favorite Quote
"UNLESS someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing's going to get better it's not!" -Dr Seuss' The Lorax
Honors and Awards
- 2025 Appalachian State University Board of Governors Excellence in Teaching Award
- 2024 Beaver College of Health Sciences Outstanding Teaching Award
- 2019 Appalachian State University, Faculty Award for Excellence in General Education Teaching NTT
- 2016 Beaver College of Health Sciences, Faculty and Staff Appreciation Outstanding Professor Award
Grants
- Cline, S.D. (2024-2025) Interactive Trail Project: Creating an Arts-based Nature Experience for All-Abilities. Civic Engagement Innovation Grant. Appalachian State University.
- Cline, S.D. (2023-2024) Interactive Nature Trail Project: Making Nature Accessible. Civic Engagement Innovation Grant. Appalachian State University.
Professional Organizations
- North American Association of Environmental Education (NAAEE)
- Association of Experiential Education (AEE)
- Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education (AORE) National
- Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA)
- North Carolina Recreation and Parks Association (NCRPA)
Certifications
- Wilderness First Responder
- Epinephrine Administration North Carolina Certificate
- CPR/First Aid/AED
- Primary Group Fitness Instructor Certification, Aerobics and Fitness Association of America
- Cycle Certification, Aerobics and Fitness Association of America
Title: Teaching Assistant Professor
Department: RMPE
Email address: Email me
Phone: (828) 262-8639