OBU welcomes Smith and Carver to Division of Exercise Science, Sports and Recreation

Oklahoma Baptist University is pleased to welcome Christa Smith as assistant professor of exercise science and Christopher Carver as visiting professor of exercise science in the Division of Exercise Science, Sports and Recreation.

Smith and Carver will teach courses in OBU’s Exercise Science degree programs, including Pre-Allied Health and Human Performance, preparing students for careers in allied health, exercise science and human performance.

Christa Smith

Smith is a registered dietitian and board-certified specialist in sports dietetics. She earned a Master of Clinical Nutrition from UT Southwestern Medical Center and a bachelor’s degree in exercise science from Dallas Baptist University. She also holds a diploma in sports nutrition from the International Olympic Committee and is pursuing a Ph.D. in kinesiology through Concordia St. Paul.

Smith joins OBU with experience in both clinical practice and higher education, having previously served as an adjunct instructor at Cedarville University and OBU. Her professional experience includes consulting for collegiate athletic departments and providing medical nutrition therapy through her private practice.

She is committed to integrating faith and learning, helping students view careers in allied health through a biblical worldview while recognizing every individual as an image-bearer of Christ.

Christopher Carver

Carver earned a master’s degree in exercise science with an emphasis in human performance from Liberty University, a Bachelor of Science in exercise science and wellness from Georgia Southwestern State University and an associate degree in exercise science from Darton State College. He is pursuing a Ph.D. in exercise science with an emphasis in human performance through Liberty University.

Carver brings experience in collegiate teaching, curriculum development, performance training and fitness industry leadership. His professional background includes serving as a personal training manager, strength coach and practitioner in exercise programming, movement instruction and athlete development.

His teaching emphasizes evidence-based practice, student engagement and real-world application, helping students connect classroom concepts with careers in allied health, exercise science and human performance.