2024 SOAR Symposium Guest Speaker
Dr. LaKeitha Poole stands at the forefront of sports psychology and counseling, weaving together a rich tapestry of expertise, compassion, and innovation in her role as Assistant Athletic Director for Sport Psychology & Counseling at LSU Athletics.
Since June 2022, Dr. Poole has spearheaded LSU Athletics' Sport Psychology & Counseling unit, leveraging her profound understanding of mental health dynamics to empower student-athletes on their journey to success both on and off the field. Her administrative promotion marks a testament to her unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions to the department.
Dr. Poole's multifaceted career journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion within collegiate athletics. As the Interim Senior Advisor to the Athletics Director for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, she championed transformative initiatives aimed at cultivating a more inclusive and supportive environment for student-athletes, coaches, and staff alike. From spearheading climate surveys to developing educational programming, Dr. Poole's tireless advocacy has left an indelible mark on the fabric of LSU Athletics.
Prior to her tenure in the Athletic Department, Dr. Poole played pivotal roles within LSU's Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA), where she served as Assistant Director and Coordinator of the LSU African American Cultural Center. In addition to her programming and student development roles, she also led efforts in creating and managing mental health services, underscoring her holistic approach to supporting the well-being of students.
Beyond her impactful work at LSU, Dr. Poole's influence extends far beyond the confines of the campus. As an adjunct instructor in the College of Human Sciences and Education, she imparts her wealth of knowledge and expertise to aspiring professionals in the field. Moreover, Dr. Poole's commitment to community service is exemplified through her involvement as a board member for the Baranco-Clark YMCA in Old South Baton Rouge.
Dr. Poole's dedication to advancing the field of mental health is further evidenced by her thriving private practice, Small Talk Counseling & Consulting, where she provides a diverse array of clinical services to individuals, couples, families, and organizations. Her illustrious clientele includes esteemed institutions such as Brown University, the NCAA, and professional sports leagues including the NFL and Team USA.
A distinguished alumna of Florida State University, Dr. Poole has been recognized for her outstanding contributions with the prestigious Notable 'Nole award in 2018. She holds a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health from LSU and a doctoral degree in Counselor Education & Supervision from Regent University in Virginia Beach, Va., underscoring her commitment to academic excellence and professional growth.
Dr. LaKeitha Poole's unwavering dedication to empowering individuals and fostering inclusive environments serves as a beacon of inspiration, enriching the lives of countless individuals and reshaping the landscape of collegiate athletics for generations to come.
Comments