About
Dr. John Cogley’s career at Eastern Washington University began in 1978. During the ensuing years he has served the University with humor and compassion, as program director and chair. Dr Cogley has dedicated his career to the directorship of the Therapeutic Recreation Program, teaching, advising students and consulting with community and private agencies. In 1986 he was promoted to full professor and most recently has held the position of Interim Chair and Chair of the Physical Education, Health and Recreation Department.
Dr. Cogley came to EWU from the University of Nebraska where he was an assistant professor. From 1975 – 1977 he was the coordinator of the graduate program in Therapeutic Recreation and Adaptive Physical Education at the University of Northern Colorado.
Under Dr. Cogley’s leadership the Therapeutic Recreation degree was accredited in 1990 through the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA). During 1992-1997, Dr. Cogley was a member of the Exam Development Committee for the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC). Through his guidance, the American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA) awarded Eastern Washington University’s Therapeutic Recreation Program with the 2004 Excellence in Education Award. In 2008, John received an award for the “outstanding professional” by the Washington State Therapeutic Recreation Association (WSTRA).
He proudly served as the Coordinator of Disabled Student Services at EWU from 1984-85 and has been involved with Washington State Special Olympics as a coach and winter games coordinator.
John has touched the lives of numerous students, faculty, staff, and administrators during his years of service to EWU. He and his family have been involved members of the community as well. Most recently, John, along with his wife Pat, were the driving force toward the establishment of the newly created “Reid Meditation Garden” that is located on the EWU campus. This was a project designed to pay tribute to the wonderful partnership between the university community, faculty and families who were part of the Reid Lab School for 50 years. For those closest to Dr. Cogley, it could be said that he is never at a loss for words or phrases that are memorable.
On a personal note from Dr. Cogley, “I will really miss all the wonderful people that I have been associated with over the years”.
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Died December 31, 2022. During his long tenure at EWU, Cogley served as a professor and department chair.
