Faculty and Staff Profile

Tom ORourke

Educational Background

1978 Slippery Rock University, PA
Health Physical Education and Recreation BS

Courses Taught

PRTM 8210 Grants and Alternative Finance
PRTM 8220 Strategic Planning
PRTM 4450/6450 Conference and Convention Planning and Management
NPL 3020 - Nonprofit Leadership - (Undergraduate)

Profile

Tom is a Professor of Practice in the PRTM Department at Clemson University. A Professor of Practice denotes and recognizes his over 40 years of experience in the field of Parks, Recreation, Athletic Administration, and Nonprofit Leadership. 2022 marks Tom's sixth year in this position at Clemson University. Tom's leadership positions include; the Executive Director of the Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission, The Director of the Mt. Pleasant Recreation Department, The Executive Director of the Parklands Foundation of Charleston, and The Chair of the Charleston Area Sports Commission. Tom also recently served as a member of the Mt. Pleasant South Carolina Town Council, serving as Mayor Pro Tempore, and chair of the Finance and Fire Committee. Education has played an important role in his professional career. Tom served as the Director of the prestigious NRPA Directors School, and the first Director of the National Park Foundation School. Tom has served on the Board of Regents for the NRPA Directors School, Revenue Development and Management School, and the Supervisors Management School. Tom is a frequent presenter at various State and National Conferences. Toms speaking reach has taken him to throughout the US, Canada, and Mexico. Tom is married to Jackie O'Rourke and has three grown children and 4 grandsons. Recreation is his profession, but his passion has always been coaching. He has coached Track and Field, (Pole Vaulting,) at various high schools in the Charleston area, the Citadel, and the College of Charleston . He is currently the Pole Vault Coach at West Ashley High School in Charleston. Tom has coached State Championship teams, as well as State Champions and State Qualifying pole vaulters.