Department of Geography and Anthropology Academic Distinction Statement

  The Department of Geography and Anthropology at Kennesaw State University empowers students to explore the complex connections between people, cultures, places, and environments. Through engaging instruction, meaningful mentorship, and hands-on learning opportunities, students develop the knowledge and skills needed to understand the human experience and address the challenges of an increasingly interconnected world. Rooted in a student-centered commitment to academic excellence, the department fosters a welcoming and collaborative environment where curiosity, critical thinking, and active participation drive learning both inside and outside the classroom.

Our faculty are passionate educators and researchers who bring real-world perspectives into the classroom while actively involving students in the discovery process. Through undergraduate research, internships, field experiences, community-based projects, study abroad programs, and service-learning opportunities, students gain practical experience that enhances their education and prepares them for success after graduation. These experiences help students build professional skills, engage with diverse communities, and develop a deeper understanding of the cultural, physical, and spatial forces that shape our world.

Faculty and student research addresses critical issues at the local, regional, and global levels, including sustainability and environmental studies, geospatial technologies, land surveying, forensic science, heritage and resource management, and studies of culture, community, and livelihoods. By combining innovative research with exceptional teaching and mentorship, the department equips graduates with the creativity, technical expertise, and global perspective needed to make meaningful contributions to their professions and communities. Through this commitment to academic excellence and experiential learning, the Department of Geography and Anthropology prepares students to become informed, engaged, and impactful global citizens.

 

Resource Spotlight

 

Kyusik Kim

New Faculty Spotlight: Kyusik Kim

Kyusik Kim is an Assistant Professor of Geographic Information Science (GIS) with expertise in transport and health geography, particularly in areas such as spatial access to healthcare, human mobility and natural disasters, as well as spatial data analysis across various topics around human geography. Leveraging GIS methods, tools, and theories, Dr. Kim aims to deepen our understanding of geographic phenomena and provide insights with meaningful policy implications. He teaches GIS courses and looks forward to working with students to push the boundaries of research.

Radow College Outstanding Advisor Award: Christine Jacobs

Our very own Christine Jacobs is the first recipient of the Radow College Outstanding Advisor Award.  Christine is a favorite among our GSS, Geography and Anthropology students.  The Selection Committee chose Christine for her mentoring, advocacy, and outstanding service to advisees, faculty, and staff. She has a mastery of regulations, policies, and procedures.  She is an encourager to our students to pursue scholarships and fellowships while helping them integrate their undergraduate/graduate education, curriculum, and experiences into their overall personal and professional journey.  Christine continues to be an indispensable team member in the Department of Geography and Anthropology.

New Faculty Spotlight: Matthew Davis

Matthew M. Davis is a Lecturer of Anthropology and a certified Ethnographer. He is a cultural anthropologist with a certification in ethnographic research methods. His research interests have focused on Black Americans in a post-Hurricane Katrina New Orleans as well as those in the Katrina diaspora. Additionally, his research focuses on pedagogies of anthropological praxis within and beyond the classroom, and the decolonization of higher education. Mr. Davis obtained his MA in Cultural Anthropology and Ethnography Certification from Georgia State University, and BA in Art History from Oglethorpe University. 

New Faculty Spotlight: David Doran, Ph.D

Dr. Doran is a new Lecturer of Geography. He received his PhD in history from Georgia State University (GSU) in Atlanta and completed his MA in geography from Georgia State University (GSU) in Atlanta. He currently teaches Human Geography, World Regional Geography, Historical Geography, Cultural Geography, Economic Geography, Geography of Europe, Landforms, and Resources, Society and Environment. His spatial and temporal research analysis includes the role of commodities, cross-cultural encounters, and port complexes in world maritime trade and international relations. Dr. Doran has served at KSU since 2010 as both an adjunct professor and visiting instructor.

Geography & Geospatial Sciences 2025 Regents Award

The Department of Geography and Anthropology was honored with the Teaching Excellence Award. The programs integrate research, technology, and hands-on experiences to prepare students for emerging challenges in their fields. The Board of Regents award is designed to showcase an outstanding department or program that promotes, supports, and recognizes excellence in teaching and innovative approaches to serving students. 
“Our esteemed faculty in the geography and geospatial sciences programs have exemplified their willingness to continue improving the way they educate to stay ahead of the curve,” said Ivan Pulinkala, KSU provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “Their passion for teaching and dedication to their fields of expertise reaffirms KSU’s commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience.”
This award adds to the program's accolades, to include the 2021 American Association of Geographers Award for the Bachelor Program.

 

2022-2023 Advisor Student Choice Award

Congratulations to Christine Jacobs, WINNER of the 2022-2023 Advisor Student Choice Award! Read what our students had to say about Christine's amazing contributions.

More information about academic advising.

GSS Faculty Spotlight

Mostafa Arastounia is an assistant professor of Geospatial Sciences at Kennesaw State University. He teaches land surveying courses, and his research is focused on automated processing of data obtained by terrestrial laser scanners and unmanned aircraft. Read more about our GSS faculty.

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