Timothy Keady

Timothy Keady serves as a Professional Practice Extension Assistant Professor in the Health and Wellness division of Utah State University's Home and Community Department. He is a key member of the HEART (Health Extension: Advocacy, Research, and Teaching) Initiative, working across Cache and Box Elder Counties to address substance misuse and suicide prevention through community-based programs.

Educational Background:

• MS in Health Education, Utah State University, 2005 (Thesis: ACADEMIC STRESS AND SEX DIFFERENCES IN A TECHNICAL COLLEGE)
• BS in Health, Physical Education, and Recreation (Exercise Science), Utah State University, 1995

Dr. Keady's research focuses on critical public health issues including opioid prevention, suicide prevention, nutrition, exercise science, and general health and wellness. His work bridges academic research with practical community implementation, particularly addressing substance use disorder and mental health challenges in rural communities. His approach emphasizes harm reduction, stigma reduction, and building community resilience.

His publication portfolio demonstrates a strong commitment to translating research into practical community applications, with emphasis on opioid prevention, harm reduction training, and addressing the intersection of nutrition and substance use disorder. The publications collectively showcase a community-oriented approach to public health challenges.

Professional Certifications:

• Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)
• Youth Mental Health First Aid Instructor
• Harm Reduction Specialist
• Trauma-Informed Basic Psychological First Aid
• QPR Gatekeeper Certificate
• Botvin Lifeskills Training Certification

Dr. Keady actively collaborates with community partners through multiple grant-funded initiatives including the HEART Initiative's opioid response programs, the PROSPER Grant, and various suicide prevention efforts. His work emphasizes practical implementation of evidence-based approaches to address substance misuse and mental health challenges in rural Utah communities. He partners with health departments, community coalitions, and other stakeholders to coordinate harm reduction efforts, stigma reduction campaigns, and prevention education programs.

His work through the HEART Initiative includes strengthening community ties, implementing prevention and education programs, and developing resources for opioid overdose prevention and harm reduction. He has been instrumental in creating community-based solutions to address the opioid epidemic and related public health challenges across multiple Utah counties.