Corey Johnson

Corey Johnson is the Karla A. Henderson Distinguished Professor in the Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management at North Carolina State University’s College of Natural Resources. He previously held a professorship at the University of Waterloo, Canada. His work focuses on power dynamics in leisure contexts, particularly intersecting gender, sexuality, and technology. Johnson is a leading scholar in qualitative research methods and social justice advocacy, co-authoring pivotal texts like Fostering Social Justice through Qualitative Inquiry and Promiscuous Perspectives: Sex and Leisure.

Education:

• Ph.D., Recreation and Leisure Studies (2002), University of Georgia
• Graduate Certificates in Qualitative Research Methods (2002) and Women’s Studies (2000), University of Georgia
• M.S., Recreation Administration (1998), University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• B.S., Education (1995), Bowling Green State University

Research Interests: Johnson’s work explores how technology shapes social relations, with a focus on dating apps and gender-based violence prevention. He employs innovative methodologies like collective memory work and appnography to critically analyze leisure practices. His funded projects address systemic inequities in digital spaces and promote inclusive leisure environments.

Publications: Over 50 peer-reviewed articles and books, including recent works on algorithmic heteronormativity, trauma healing through leisure, and LGBTQ+ inclusion in education. His research bridges theory and activism, emphasizing ethical, reflexive scholarship.

Awards: The Karla A. Henderson Distinguished Professorship, the first of its kind in his department, recognizes his transformative contributions to leisure studies and social justice.

Teaching & Advocacy: Teaches courses on social justice, qualitative methods, and gender/sexuality in leisure. Advocates for marginalized communities through curriculum design and participatory research.