Cameron Mackey, an educator, research scientist and U.S. Air Force veteran, has been named the new program director for health and human performance graduate studies at Wartburg College.
He has taught more than a dozen different classes at the graduate and undergraduate level at Oklahoma State University and Loyola University Chicago, including biomechanics, physiology of exercise and applied anatomy. His current research interests include muscular and neural adaptations to exercise and military and first-responder physical performance and fitness evaluations.
“I am incredibly honored to join the Wartburg College family. What drew me to this institution is its unwavering commitment to service and the holistic development of students,” Mackey said. “In this new role, I am most excited to collaborate with our talented faculty and staff to empower our students, helping them integrate health and human performance into a lifelong calling of leadership and service.”
Mackey earned a doctorate in health and human performance and a graduate certificate in statistical analyses from Oklahoma State University. While in the military, Mackey was a physical training leader, in which he trained and assessed his military peers and which led to his interest in the exercise science field.
At Wartburg, Mackey will oversee the college’s two new graduate programs: a Master of Science in data science in human performance and a Master of Science in sport science. Both programs will begin in fall 2026.
He will work closely with Erin Swancutt, the new director of graduate studies operations, to grow existing and new graduate opportunities at Wartburg. Swancutt comes to Wartburg with experience in student services, community outreach and program development.
“I look forward to building on the momentum that Wartburg has in the graduate education space, working collaboratively to expand, strengthen and elevate graduate programs to serve students and advance Wartburg’s mission,” Swancutt said.
The 33-hour master’s in data science in human performance will teach students the skills necessary to analyze data and turn it into actionable insights that will optimize performance. The 36-hour master’s in sport science combines elite coaching and cutting-edge technology with the goal of attaching the highest standard of achievement in athletic competition. Each two-year program includes dynamic online coursework and an in-person practicum that can be completed on campus at Wartburg or at other locations nationwide with a contracted partner.
Both programs have been approved by the Higher Learning Commission, the college’s accrediting body.
“We are excited for Cameron and Erin to join our graduate studies team. Their expertise and commitment to creating quality student learning experiences will enhance the learning of current and future graduate students,” said Michael Gleason, associate dean for graduate studies.
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