Luci Parmer, Ph.D.
Meet Luci Parmer
Greetings! I come from the picturesque Flora-Bama region along the Gulf Coast, with deep roots in a humble farm community near Pensacola. From 6th grade through college, I was a major athlete, participating in softball, basketball, volleyball, and even cheerleading. My love for sports extended to a women's city league in softball, where I started at the age of 12, playing alongside my two sisters and cousin. We competed all over the Southeast, securing numerous tournament victories.
Moreover, I received scholarship offers to play basketball, softball, and volleyball at the collegiate level. Ultimately, I chose to play basketball as a point guard and wing, along with softball at the third base position. Looking back, I occasionally contemplate not pursuing volleyball, but I firmly believe in living a life free of regrets.
During my youth, an intriguing aspect of my journey was the scholarship offer I received at 18 to attend West Point Academy, a choice I declined. This decision, often discussed by my father, a former Marine, is something I ponder in hindsight, despite my life philosophy that embraces living without regrets.
In a different context, my family history holds an interesting dimension. Both my mother and I were honored as Homecoming Queens at Ernest Ward High School, named after my great Uncle, while my grandfather shared the name Ernest Ward. My mother's maiden name is Ward, underscoring our connection to this shared legacy.
Additionally, at the age of 20, I was offered the opportunity to play on the National Women's Softball team, a remarkable opportunity that I regrettably turned down. Nevertheless, I choose to focus on the present rather than dwelling on missed opportunities.
My journey through education led me to a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies from Our Lady of the Lake University's School of Business & Leadership. Balancing my academic pursuits, I dedicated seven years to full-time teaching in high school, specifically in the Career & Technology and Business Departments, alongside five years as a part-time business adjunct professor. Today, I stand on the brink of my 11th year fully immersed in the realm of higher education, honored to serve as a professor.
Throughout my career, I have traversed a diverse and dynamic path, encompassing roles in wireless telecommunications within a B2B context, covering a multi-state territory, as well as property sales, marketing, and management. I also explored entrepreneurial ventures in music promotion and dedicated a significant period as a lead singer in a band. During the early stages of my professional journey, I embraced customer service in the retail fashion sector while simultaneously pursuing an MBA. My academic background has further prepared me for a range of strategic consulting engagements across diverse industries, underscoring my capacity to excel in multifaceted professional environments.
In my leisure hours, I prioritize activities that contribute to my well-being, including fitness, travel, meditation, journaling, playing the piano, singing, and indulging in captivating television content. My penchant for reality television, documentaries, and Sci-Fi movies adds depth to my character and reflects my holistic approach to life. Quality time with family, friends, and my dear cat holds significant value; after the loss of my beloved cat, Baby, in 2020, I made a decisive move on February 29, 2020, to rescue a Tuxedo cat, whom I affectionately named Buddy.
In conclusion, I aspire to lead a life filled with compassion and kindness, extending this philosophy to people and animals alike. I encourage you to embrace this same kindness for yourself, your fellow beings, and our animal companions.
