Randall Cox: Refusing to let a physical challenge keep him from living life

		Though a swimming pool accident at age 19 left Randall Cox in a wheelchair, the director of the UNT Psychology Clinic believes what happened allows him to have a unique impact on those around him.

Randall Cox, director of the UNT Psychology Clinic, has a motto: "What's life, if not for living?"

If anyone knows how important it is to live life to its fullest, it's Cox. In 1984, a swimming pool diving accident at a Kansas City hotel resulted in a spinal cord injury that left him quadriplegic at the age of 19. When many people would have given up hope, Cox maintained a positive outlook.

"The accident has helped me to keep perspective on what is most important in life — my family, my friends and the example of how I choose to live my life," he says.

Cox, who received his doctorate in psychology at UNT, devotes himself to being a father and husband. He also remains active in the community, is involved in his church and served on the board of Habitat for Humanity of Denton for five years.

Cox applies his optimistic perspective to teaching and mentoring students, which he says is the best part of his job.

"It is an honor to have the opportunity to influence and impact the professional development of students," he says. "It is awesome to reflect on how, after graduation, students will positively affect so many lives."

He says he strives to have a beneficial impact on students around him.
"I would like to think that their lives have been a little brighter because of something I've said or done," he says.

Cox is currently writing a book about his life experiences. He hopes to share the story of how his faith has guided and supported him through hard times.

"While I was drowning in the pool, unable to move, I was suddenly slapped in the face by issues of faith," says Cox. "Then I spent an eternity lying in a hospital bed, praying and reflecting on my past and what my future would be like. My faith provided me with peace and the understanding that my life — though it had changed significantly — still had purpose."

Cox's work with students includes teaching two graduate-level courses and overseeing the work of student trainees and practicum teams.

"Dr. Cox is very supportive. I can remember several times I've seen four or five students standing outside his door waiting to talk with him," says Peggilee Wupperman, a clinical psychology doctoral student. "Students often fight to work with him, partly because he's an exceptional supervisor and therapist, but also because he's just fun to be around."

BY MAGAN HENDON inhouse@unt.edu

Other featured articles in this issue

• Regents approve recommendation to create UNT Honors College
• Libraries conducting survey to measure service
• UNT to commemorate advances and sacrifices of women during March
• Hospital plans to reopen as non-network service provider
• Faculty Senate members meet the newly appointed faculty ombudsman
• Music sales support tsunami relief
• Lace up your walking shoes for Denton Relay for Life
• Organizing the office made easier with time specifically dedicated to the task
• Tips to tame the challenges of the clock

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