Rate My Professor Jon Evans

Jon Evans is a Teaching Assistant Professor in the Recreation Management and Recreational Therapy Department at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. He holds a Master of Science degree from Clemson University and a Bachelor of Science degree from Eastern Kentucky University. Evans' path to academia in recreation management was influenced by his childhood immersion in the natural landscapes of southeastern Kentucky and subsequent military service, which rekindled his passion for outdoor recreation. As an experienced professional in the field, he brings practical insights to his teaching and student mentorship.

At UW-La Crosse, Evans instructs courses emphasizing hands-on, practical skills critical to recreation management careers, including budgeting, youth development, and camp administration. In his role as Internship Coordinator, he facilitates valuable real-world experiences for students, underscoring his commitment to experiential learning. Evans has actively contributed to professional discourse through presentations, such as the 'WPRA Recreation Management Pre-Conference Panel Discussion' at the Wisconsin Park and Recreation Association Annual Meeting on January 30 in La Crosse, Wisconsin. Collaborating with colleagues Katherine Evans, Laurie Harmon, Brian Kumm-Schaley, and Daniel Plunkett, the panel addressed recent curriculum changes in recreation management, departmental responses to post-COVID student needs, strategies for student recruitment and retention, internship requirements and opportunities, initiatives to increase enrollment and professional engagement, and potential collaborations between academic units and field professionals. Additionally, his recreation class organized the Day of Well-Being event, offering wellness ideas to fellow students. Evans is designated as a Master Advisor through January 2025, supporting student advising in Recreation Management and Recreational Therapy. His involvement extends to departmental efforts in student recruitment, certificate program development, and enhancing learning experiences.