Jonathan S. Tomhave

Jonathan S. Tomhave, Ph.D., is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Communication Studies at Saint Martin's University, affiliated with the College of Arts and Sciences. He is a founding member and researcher of the N.D.N. Players Research Group, focusing on decolonizing gaming through the integration of Indigenous philosophies. His work critiques colonial narratives in board and card games, advocating for respectful cultural representation. Dr. Tomhave also serves as a cultural consultant for game developers and produces the N.D.N. Players Podcast, amplifying Indigenous perspectives in media.

His research expertise spans media production, ethnographic research, and American Indian/Indigenous studies. Dr. Tomhave’s publications address the application of Indigenous knowledge systems to game mechanics and linguistic-cultural representation in transmedia contexts.

Dr. Tomhave leads the N.D.N. Players initiative, fostering collaboration between Indigenous communities and game designers to promote ethical storytelling and cultural authenticity. His work bridges academic research with practical industry consultation, challenging mainstream gaming paradigms.