May 26, 2022 

Pikeville, Ky. – Director of Athletics Kelly Wells has announced Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Justin Hazlewood as the Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR) for UPIKE Athletics.  

The FAR serves as the contact for NAIA eligibility rules and assists student-athletes and coaches with academic and athletic eligibility matters. This position evaluates transcripts, submits certifications, and navigates unique eligibility scenarios.  

Hazlewood, who has been at UPIKE since the fall of 2021, is a key member of the university faculty. In addition to his assistant professor role, Hazlewood was also nominated and elected to serve on the university's Faculty Executive Committee in the spring of 2022.  

Since 2007, Hazlewood has held a variety of leadership positions within law enforcement. After serving as a patrol officer where he was tasked in various specialized operations, Hazlewood trained peers as a Sergeant, Senior Sergeant, and head of training. His dedication and knowledge in the field presented him with several roles and partnerships with organizations while in law enforcement.  

After 13 years in law enforcement, Hazlewood moved on to teach in higher education in the fall of 2019. 

Hazlewood graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Services Management from Bethel University in 2016, earning his Master's of Science in Criminal Justice two years later. Currently, Hazlewood is a Ph.D. candidate at Liberty University with an expected completion date of 2022-23.  

Wells is excited for Hazlewood's new partnership with athletics.  

"We would like to thank long time FAR Howard Francis for his dedication and service to athletics, and wish him all the best as he takes the next steps in his personal and professional life. Justin is the best candidate to step into this role and we could not be more excited to welcome him into our athletics family. Justin has been an excellent resource for students and for the university as a whole and brings to this position strong character, work ethic, and leadership skills needed to thrive in this role."