Alexis Lyras, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Department of Kinesiology
School of Pharmacy and Health Professions
William P. Hytche Athletic Center, Room 1134
Email: alyras@umes.edu
Phone: 410-651-6708
Education
- Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education and Sport Science (1995) – National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
- Masters in Education for Sport Management and Sociology (2004) – University of Connecticut, United States
- Doctorate in Kinesiology and Sport Management (2007) – University of Connecticut, United States
- Post-Doctoral Senior Research Fellowship on Sport for Conflict Resolution (2014) – Georgetown University, United States
Biography
Dr Alexis Lyras’ extensive Global Sport Management grantsmanship, research interest and teaching experience are centered on the educational, change management and impact assessment aspects of Olympism for Humanity: The application of Olympic World Heritage and ideals as a social innovation platform and an enabler for Peace, Health and Democracy. Lyras is the author of Olympism for Humanity (O4H) and Sport for Development Theories (SFDT), the first and most widely used applied theories in this field. This framework has served as a blueprint for his M.A., Ph.D. and Post-doctoral work, with scholarships and grants received from the Olympic Solidarity, the Research & Innovation Foundation, the United Nations and Generations for Peace.
Dr. Lyras started his career in Sports Coaching where he was a celebrated basketball coach at local, national and international levels. His intellectual curiosity took him to academia where for over twenty-five years he has been examining and creating thought leadership on how the practical application of the Olympic idea and ideals can be a used as a Peacebuilding vehicle for Innovation and Development. He is a passionate Olympic Education advocate and a proud member of the Olympic Movement, seeking for opportunities where he can optimize the impact of Olympism in Society.
Research Experiences and Interests
Applied Olympic studies; action research; global sport for peace and development; integrated Olympism for Humanity theory and praxis; academic innovation and Olympic literacy; data-driven Olympic education; Olympism in Action; Olympic Champions of Change
