Ryan Zapalac

Dr. Ryan Zapalac serves as the Dean of the College of Health Sciences and a Professor in the Department of Kinesiology at Sam Houston State University. He joined SHSU in 2006 after a stint at Rice University, specializing in sport management, marketing, and fan behavior research. He teaches courses on sport management, event facilities, and consumer behavior.

Dr. Zapalac holds a PhD in Kinesiology (2004), M.Ed. in Physical Education (2001), and B.S. in Kinesiology (1998), all from the University of Houston. His research focuses on sport fan psychology, marketing strategies, and consumer behaviors, with over 20 refereed manuscripts and 40 conference presentations. Notable work includes studies on fantasy sports, legalization of wagering, and pandemic impacts on fan engagement.

His publications reveal a thematic emphasis on fan motivation, crisis management in sports, and digital consumption patterns. Awards include nominations for the SHSU Excellence in Teaching Award and TAHPERD Scholar Award. As a first-generation college graduate, he champions initiatives for first-gen students, including roles on the First-Gen Committee and SHSU’s Academic Integrity Committee.

Dr. Zapalac supervised internships at major sports organizations like the Houston Astros, Texans, and NRG Park, reflecting his commitment to student professional development. His leadership roles include Chair of the Faculty Senate’s Faculty Affairs Committee and participation in the High Potential Employee Leadership Academy.