Meet Dr. Dustin Vick, a 2009 graduate from the College of Arts and Sciences Behavioral Sciences program. Athens State places a high value on helping students discover not only their career path, but their purpose. For Vick, that discovery began with uncertainty, fear, and a powerful nudge from his wife.
At 36 years old, Vick had spent his life working hard in physically demanding jobs. Then one day, his wife looked at him and said, “You need to go to college.” That moment set a new course in motion that led him through community college to Athens State, and eventually to the front of a classroom himself.
His first class at Athens State was with the, in Vick’s words, “legendary” Dr. Mark Durm in statistics. This first day of class made a lasting change on Vick’s life.
He (Durm) stepped in front of the class and began speaking with such confidence and conviction,” Vick recalled. “He not only knew the material inside and out, but he taught in a way that made me want to teach like that one day.
That inspiration stuck with Vick. Guided by professors such as Dr. Durm, Dr. Susan Owen, Dr. Gadberry, and Dr. Douglass, Vick not only experienced academic growth but also gained a true sense of direction. He graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Behavioral Science and immediately began working in the field of substance abuse counseling.
His passion for helping others led him to pursue further education, earning a Master of Science in Psychology, followed by a second master’s in Adult Education and Curriculum Design, and ultimately a PhD in Educational Psychology. Vick’s drive and dedication propelled him through roles as a counselor, adjunct instructor, college dean, and eventually to his current position as Chief of Academic Affairs for the United States Air Force Global College of Professional Military Education at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Alabama.
Today, Dr. Vick oversees more than 45,000 students and nine programs across multiple colleges within the Air University system. He’s living the dream he once hesitated even to imagine. For Vick the realization of teaching, leading, and serving those who serve our country has been as fulfilling as it has been humbling.
“Without my experience at Athens State, I would have never discovered my true calling in higher education,” Vick shared. “For that, I am most grateful.”
Vick is an inspiring example of what Athens State aims to offer all students: career preparation, guidance, connection, and opportunity. Dr. Dustin Vick’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your purpose.
About the Behavioral Science Program
The Behavioral Science degree program at Athens State University is committed to guiding students to become psychologically and sociologically literate citizens of the 21st century by providing a broad and balanced understanding of psychology and sociology as a social and natural science. Students pursuing a behavioral science degree gain knowledge, skills, and values consistent with the science and application of psychological and sociological principles. Click HERE to learn more.