Kenny R. Pope , B.A, M.Ed.

Kenny Pope is a doctoral student in Educational Studies, specializing in Educational Policy and Higher Education at the University of Cincinnati, where he is advised by Dr. Everrett Smith. He currently serves as an Associate Professor in the College of Cooperative Education and Professional studies, supporting students in their professional development, experiential learning, and career readiness.

His research focuses on Black placemaking, belonging, and the experiences of Black student-athletes at predominantly white institutions (PWIs), with broader interests in educational equity, access, student success and experiential learning in higher education.

Kenny earned his Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Wittenberg University in Springfield, Ohio, and his Master’s in Special Education from the George Washington University in Washington, D.C. His professional background includes teaching, higher education, coaching, and sports admin. A Cincinnati native, Kenny enjoys traveling the world, playing golf, coaching youth baseball and golf, cheering on the Cincinnati Bearcats, and competing in sports-related video games.

Master of Arts in Education: The George Washington University Washington, DC, 2011 (Special Education - Traumatic Brain Injury)

Bachelor of Arts: Wittenberg University Springfield, OH, 1999 (Sociology; German)

Peer Reviewed Publications

Nadia Ibrahim-Taney, Kenneth R. Pope, Dr. Erik Alanson, Rich Hoyt, Kelli Anderson (2026. ) Leveling Up Experiential Learning: Integrating Coursera and LinkedIn Learning Micro-Credentials into Cooperative Education Courses and Alternative Work Experiences.Journal for the Study of Cooperative and Experiential Education , , 2 (1 ) ,45-55 More Information

08-18-2025 -05-08-2026 Dr. Simon Anderson Faculty Recognition This award is presented annually to a faculty member who has shown continued support of the educational advancement of student-athletes. UC Athletics Status:Recipient Level:University Type:Recognition

05-03-2024 -05-03-2024 Faculty Excellence Award Faculty Excellence Award in your college. This award, co-sponsored by the Office of the Provost and the Office of Research, honors faculty who have demonstrated excellence in teaching, research, and/or service. Office of the Provost & Office of Research Status:Recipient Level:University Type:Recognition

04-19-2023 -04-19-2023 Best New Presenter Conference for Industry and Educational Collaboration American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) Status:Recipient Type:Recognition