Jesse Jones

Jesse Jones serves as a Professional Practice Associate Professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Science at Utah State University, teaching courses in recreation administration, outdoor adventure leadership, and wilderness medicine while contributing to student recruitment and curriculum development. With over three decades of field experience spanning guiding in Jackson Hole, community recreation management, and international tourism, he integrates practical expertise into his academic role.

His educational qualifications include:

• PhD in Recreation, Sport, and Tourism (Leisure, Health, and Wellness), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2012
• MS in Adventure Recreation, Ohio University, 2007
• BA in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism (Finance), University of Utah, 2002

Dr. Jones' research examines the intersection of leisure experiences with health quality of life across the lifespan, particularly investigating outdoor adventure recreation's role for older adults and individuals managing chronic conditions like arthritis and cancer. His work explores how recreation participation influences self-management strategies, coping mechanisms for loss, and therapeutic outcomes through both qualitative and quantitative methodologies.

His publication record demonstrates consistent focus on leisure's therapeutic applications, with recurring themes of self-efficacy measurement in outdoor contexts, leisure constraints among specialized populations, and the relationship between recreation participation and health outcomes for aging and chronically ill populations. This body of work bridges academic theory with practical recreation programming.

Professional recognition includes:

• Undergraduate Faculty Mentor of the Year 2022-2023 and 2023, Department of Kinesiology and Health Science
• Teaching Scholar Certificate, 2021, Utah State University Academic and Instructional Services

As an advisor, Dr. Jones mentors undergraduate and graduate students through experiential learning approaches, emphasizing real-world application of recreation administration principles. His teaching philosophy centers on developing self-determined practitioners through diverse instructional methods that connect theoretical knowledge with field experience. While specific grant funding isn't detailed, his research agenda on aging populations and recreation infrastructure aligns with significant demographic trends.

Professionally active beyond academia, he maintains certifications as a Wilderness First Responder Trainer (Desert Mountain Medicine), Level 3 Coastal Kayaking Instructor, and Level 2 Standup Paddle Board Instructor (American Canoe Association), while contributing to the American Canoe Association, Utah Parks and Recreation Association, and Wilderness Education Association.