Clayton Camic

Camic was named College of Education's Senior Faculty Fellow for 2022-24.

What year did you start at NIU?
Fall 2017.

Where is your hometown, and where do you reside now?
Lexington, KY; Loves Park, IL.

Where did you attend college and what degree(s) have you earned?
Ph.D., Exercise Physiology; University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2011.
M.S., Exercise Physiology; University of Wyoming, 2003.
B.S., Exercise Science; Morehead State University, 2001.

Were you ever undecided, and/or did you change majors?
I was undecided until my fourth year of college and ended up graduating with 167 credit hours after five-and-a-half years.

What advice would you give to students either just starting their college journey or currently attending NIU?
Understand that success in academics and life in general is all about putting in the work. It is that simple.

What do you like about working at NIU?
I love having small classrooms that are always filled with engaging students who constantly inspire me.

Tell us about a research or engaged learning project you have led.
My recent research has focused on the safety and effectiveness of multi-ingredient pre-workout supplementation.

What do you hope students take away from your class?
I want my students to feel inspired and understand success in academics is achievable for anyone willing to put in the work.

What is your favorite campus event?
Spring graduation!

What is your favorite memory of NIU?
I love going to regional and national American College of Sports Medicine conferences with my colleagues and students every year.

Are you a member of or hold a position within a professional organization?
I am a member of both the American College of Sports Medicine and National Strength and Conditioning Association. More notably, I serve on the editorial board of a couple scientific journals. In addition to my own research, this position allows me to have an excellent understanding of the most current, cutting-edge findings in the field of exercise physiology. This translates into providing more accurate information to my students.

What community organizations are you involved in?
My oldest daughter plays in recreational soccer and basketball leagues as well as dance. I help out with those as needed. I also play in a couple local poker leagues.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I have two daughters who keep me very busy and we are constantly moving. In the evenings, I love to read about history and philosophy. Also, I am very active in the outdoors, especially with mountaineering and rock climbing during the summer.

Clayton L. Camic is an associate professor of exercise physiology in the College of Education, Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education