Jesse J. Tafoya

Lieutenant Colonel Jesse J. Tafoya serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU) and concurrently as the Senior Strategic Medical Planner for the U.S. Department of State. An active-duty U.S. Army officer (70H, Plans, Operations, Security, Intelligence, and Training) with 19 years of service, LTC Tafoya brings extensive operational experience including 39 months deployed in support of the Global War on Terrorism across Operations Iraqi Freedom, New Dawn, and Inherent Resolve.

• MHAP in Health Administration and Policy, Uniformed Services University (2021)
• MEd in Adult and Continuing Education, Kansas State University (2017)
• BS in Biomedical Engineering, University of Idaho (2005)

LTC Tafoya's research focuses on Interagency Strategic Medical Planning and Medical Policy and Initiatives, leveraging his expertise in whole-of-government approaches to coordinate medical support concepts across military, civilian, and international partners. His work bridges tactical field operations with strategic policy formulation, emphasizing contingency planning for global health security threats and multinational medical operations in complex environments.

• Bronze Star
• Meritorious Service Medal (3OLC)
• Army Commendation Medal (3OLC)
• Army Achievement Medal (1OLC)
• Department of State Superior Honor Award
• Department of State Meritorious Honor Award
• Senior Parachutist Badge