Jackie Dawson

Jackie Kiwata Dawson, PhD
Assistant Professor, Physical Therapy

  • University of Southern California, PhD, Biokinesiology, 2017
  • ÃÛÌÒÓ°ÏñState University, Los Angeles, MS, Kinesiology, 2011
  • University of California, Los Angeles, BS, Computer Science, 2004

My research focuses on reducing cardiometabolic disease risk and ÃÛÌÒÓ°Ïñhealth through exercise, especially in minority, underserved and aging populations. In my current research, I aim to employ a mixed methods, community-engaged approach to address social determinants of health and improve health outcomes by 1) exploring challenges faced in accessing health-related services, 2) developing theoretically-informed exercise rehabilitative interventions tailored for minority populations, and 3) leveraging technology to deliver interventions within these communities. My previous work has investigated the use of exercise therapy to improve cardiometabolic health outcomes in cancer survivors, individuals with neurologic disorders, older adults, and gold star families in vulnerable neighborhoods in Los Angeles County.  

  • Certified Phlebotomy Technician I, 2019
  • Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry Technician, 2018
  • American College of Sports Medicine/American Cancer Society, Cancer Exercise Trainer, 2013
  • National Strength and Conditioning Association, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, 2012
  • American College of Sports Medicine, Certified Personal Trainer, 2007

2024Health Disparities Research Institute Scholar, NIH National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities
2023Research Mentorship Recognition Award, CSU Long Beach
2021Commencement Speaker, Department of Physical Therapy, CSU Long Beach
2017Jacquelin Perry Scholar Award, Division of Biokinesiology, University of Southern California
2017Research Day Award, Division of Biokinesiology, University of Southern California
2017Research Day Award, Ostrow School of Dentistry, University of Southern California
2014Research Day Award, Ostrow School of Dentistry, University of Southern California
2014Outstanding Teaching Award, Division of Biokinesiology, University of Southern California
2012 - 2017Doctoral Incentive Program Scholar, CSU Chancellor’s Office
2011Distinguished Masters' Thesis Award, Western Associate of Graduate Schools
2010Alumni Certificate of Honor, CSU Los Angeles
2010Alumni Graduate Scholarship, CSU Los Angeles
2010Student Symposium for Research Award, CSU Los Angeles
2009Alumni Certificate of Honor, CSU Los Angeles
2008Alumni Graduate Scholarship, CSU Los Angeles
2004Student Commencement Speaker, Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of California, Los Angeles

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