Dr. Alicia C. Stapp is a Professor of Health and Physical Education and Assistant Chair of Teacher Education at the University of Mississippi in Oxford, Mississippi. As an educator, researcher, curriculum developer, and wellness advocate with over two decades of experience, Alicia is passionate about preparing educators and creating healthier, more connected learning environments where children and adults can thrive. Her passion for education began in Florida, where she grew up in a family of educators spanning more than 100 years. A lifelong dancer, Alicia developed a deep appreciation for the connection between movement, creativity, health, and learning, which continues to shape her work today.

Her work focuses on whole child education, teacher wellness, mindfulness, physical activity integration, and community-engaged research. She serves as Coordinator of the Wellness and Physical Activity Endorsement program that she developed, Co-Director of the Growing Healthy Minds, Bodies, and Communities program, Senior Fellow for community-engaged teaching and learning at UM, and a leader within the Mississippi Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance.

Outside of her professional work, Alicia enjoys time with her husband and their son, Ace. She loves sunflowers, the ocean, traveling, and writing, and believes joy, connection, and wellness are essential to a meaningful life. She welcomes opportunities for collaboration, research partnerships, professional development, consulting, workshops, and wellness services.