Jafra D. Thomas

Jafra D. Thomas serves as an Assistant Professor in the Kinesiology and Public Health Department at California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly), San Luis Obispo. His academic work centers on advancing healthy and active lifestyles through evidence-based knowledge translation and equitable physical activity promotion frameworks.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Kinesiology, Oregon State University (2019)
• M.P.H. in Health Promotion Health Behavior, Oregon State University (2017)
• M.A. in Health & Exercise Science (Sport Sciences), University of the Pacific (2014)
• Graduate Certificate in College and University Teaching, Oregon State University (2016)
• B.A. in Sport Sciences, University of the Pacific (2012)
• Diploma in General Education, Captain Charles M. Weber Institute (2008)

Research Interests: Dr. Thomas investigates critical gaps in physical activity communication, specializing in health literacy, knowledge translation, and sociocultural barriers to equitable participation. His work employs mixed-methods approaches to evaluate material suitability, readability, and comprehension—particularly for vulnerable populations including individuals with disabilities and cancer survivors. Current projects address DEI implementation in exercise science, gender-inclusive pedagogy, and accessibility of digital health resources.

Publication Trends: Recent scholarship (2023-2025) reveals three dominant trajectories: (1) rigorous analysis of physical activity material comprehension across diverse populations, (2) development of equity-focused communication frameworks addressing disability inclusion and cultural barriers, and (3) innovative pedagogical approaches for training health professionals in plain-language dissemination. His work consistently bridges academic research with practical implementation through student-led initiatives and practitioner collaborations.

Scientific Awards: No scientific awards were documented in the provided materials.

Advising and Grants: Dr. Thomas integrates mentoring through experiential learning, evidenced by student co-authorship on publications about accessibility case studies, DEI working groups, and concussion culture analysis. His grant activity focuses on curriculum development for health communication practicums and student-led health literacy workshops, though specific funding sources aren't detailed in the source text.

Labs and Teams: Collaborative work is evident through IJES working groups on DEI implementation and student research brigades, but no dedicated laboratory facilities are specified. His approach emphasizes classroom-based research teams tackling real-world communication challenges in public health settings.