Zikun Li

Affiliate Faculty

sport for development and peace (SDP), sport and communication, sport and immigration & refugees

Dr. Zikun Li earned her Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Studies, with a specialization in sport for development and peace, from George Mason University. She is currently an assistant professor of sport management at Mount St. Mary’s University.

Dr. Li’s research focuses on the sociological and psychological dimensions of sport, particularly the ways in which sport can promote individual well-being and broader social development. Her work places special emphasis on underserved populations and underrepresented geographic and cultural contexts.

Selected Publications

Li, Z. (2026). Reclaim Pride and Dignity within Neoliberal and Olympic Ideals: An Analysis of Olympic Refugee Athletes’ Self-Presentation on Instagram. Communication & Sport, 14(3), 948-970.

Li, Z., Liu, H. L., Lee, K., Wu, I. C., & Bradly, M. (2025). Roller derby is my passion: the Impact of athletic identity on dualistic passion through serious leisure. Managing Sport and Leisure, 1-16.

Li, Z., Chalip, L., & Rodgers, E. B. D. (2024). Examining the Economic Value of Collegiate Club Sports to the University. Recreational Sports Journal, 49(1), 3-15.

Education

Ph.D., George Mason University (2025)

M.A., University of Michigan - Ann Arbor (2016)

B.A., Beijing Sport University (2014)