Traci L. Thompson, MS

I earned my MS degree in Health and Exercise Science from Colorado State University in 2000. I hold several certifications including Certified Health Fitness Director (HFD) and Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer through the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

I have worked as an educator for the University of Utah since 2001 and have instructed courses including for Kinesiology and Health Education Departments including: Exploration of Movement Science, Practicum in Fitness Leadership, Supervised Internship, Health Preceptorship and Independent Study. Although I consistently teach two academic class per semester, most of the education I provide involves mentoring undergraduate and graduate students in practical application of health, fitness and wellness assessment and program management at PEAK.

Under my direction, PEAK won the 2014 Beacon of Excellence Award in recognition of the transformational experiences our clinic provides for students. I was honored to be selected as a Fellow in the Academy of Health Science Educators in April, 2015 in recognition of outstanding accomplishment in health science education. In March 2017, I was awarded the Career Services Faculty Recognition Award. The Career & Professional Development Center annually recognizes outstanding faculty who have made significant contributions to their students' professional development. Nominations were made by students, and winners were selected for their dedication to help students find resources, guide their career paths and realize their potential.

I am committed to continue to work to provide the best education to our students. In 2018, I completed the requirements to be recognized as a Higher Education Teaching Specialist (HETs) through the University’s Center for Teaching and Leaning Excellence (CTLE). In the Spring of 2019, I earned a Clinical Teaching Certificate through the Academy of Health Science Educators.

When I’m not teaching, I love to exercise outdoors and travel with my family.

Selected Publications