
SCOPE+ Conference
The 1st Annual SCOPE+ Conference, hosted at UT Permian Basin, is a two-day event designed for professionals in the field of sport and physical activity. Whether you're a coach, official, physical educator, athletic trainer, strength and conditioning specialist, biomechanist, or work in a related discipline, this conference offers valuable opportunities to connect, learn, and grow.
Our goal is to “bring it all together”—uniting experts from various sectors to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and build stronger professional relationships. Through engaging workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions, attendees will gain insights to enhance their expertise and impact in their respective fields.
Conference Details
📅 Dates: July 10 9am - 5pm and July 11 9am - 12pm
📍 Location: KIRK Building
Join us for two days of insightful discussions, hands-on learning, and collaboration with fellow professionals who are shaping the future of sport and physical activity.
👉 Stay tuned for session topics and keynote speakers!
Dr. Rick West - Keynote Speaker
Dr. Rick West
Associate Professor & Department Chair, Health and Human PerformanceUniversity of Tennessee at Martin (UTM)
Dr. Rick West is an experienced educator, coach, and leader in the field of sport and physical activity. Currently serving as the Associate Professor and Department Chair of Health and Human Performance at the University of Tennessee at Martin (UTM), Dr. West brings a vast array of experiences in coaching, teaching, and administration.
A proud first-generation college graduate, Dr. West began his academic journey at West Liberty University in West Virginia, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education, Health, and Special Education. He then pursued graduate studies at West Virginia University (WVU), obtaining a Master of Science in Athletic Coaching Education and a Doctor of Education in Physical Education, Coaching, and Teaching Studies.
Since entering higher education in 2011, Dr. West has made contributions as a faculty member and department head. He has earned tenure and been promoted to Associate Professor at Fairmont State University. His leadership roles include Program Director for Exercise Physiology and Graduate Education, Coordinator of Physical Education, University Registrar, and currently Department Chair of Health and Human Performance.
Beyond academia, Dr. West has an extensive background in the field of sports and physical activity. He served as a physical education teacher and as a Senior Director in the YMCA system. His expertise in coaching spans multiple prestigious programs, including The Ohio State University, Duquesne University, and the University of Pittsburgh. Most notably, he served as Associate Head Men's Swimming Coach at West Virginia University (WVU), where he mentored elite swimmers—including two athletes who represented Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
With his unique blend of academic leadership, coaching experience, and administrative expertise, Dr. West is committed to advancing the fields of sport, physical education, and athletic performance.