Faculty Spotlight: Meet the Experts Shaping Our Master of Science in Exercise Science and Integrated Wellness Program

As we gear up for the launch of our Master of Science in Exercise Science and Integrated Wellness Program this fall, we are thrilled to introduce two distinguished adjunct professors who will be instrumental in guiding our students through this innovative curriculum. This program is designed to equip graduates with the skills to craft personalized exercise programs for diverse populations, blending a holistic approach with cutting-edge knowledge to prepare students for certifications from leading industry associations.

In this faculty spotlight, we spotlight Dr. Terri J Leap and Dr. Thomas, two exceptional educators whose extensive backgrounds and passion for exercise science will enrich our program and inspire our students.

Dr. Terri J Leap brings over 20 years of teaching experience across both secondary and post-secondary settings. Her expertise spans traditional and online classrooms, focusing on graduate students pursuing degrees in Exercise Science and Health and Human Performance. Dr. Leap's student-centered approach has consistently led to high retention rates and exceptional student outcomes. A graduate of Logan College of Chiropractic, she has earned multiple accolades, including a Distinguished Alumni award for her contributions to chiropractic research.

Dr. Michael Thomas has dedicated his career to health and fitness, with a strong focus on strength training. After earning a bachelor’s degree in physical education, he taught at a public school and coached baseball before founding a fitness training business in 2001, which continues to thrive. He pursued advanced studies in muscle hypertrophy and strength training, earning his master’s and Ph.D. degrees. His research examines the effects of resistance training on skeletal muscle and strength. Dr. Thomas is passionate about teaching and mentoring, helping students develop research skills and apply their knowledge to improve health and fitness in their communities.

To give you deeper insights into their perspectives and experiences, we recently sat down with Dr. Leap and Dr. Thomas for a Q&A session. Here’s what they had to say:

Q: Can you share a bit about your background and accomplishments in exercise science and what drives your passion for teaching and mentoring the next generation of exercise professionals?

Dr. Thomas: I have a strong passion for resistance training. I earned my bachelor's degree in physical education, managed the local YMCA, and taught physical education at a public school for two years while also coaching baseball. I then founded a fitness training company specializing in personal fitness training. Now in its 23rd year, our business continues to focus on helping individuals improve their health.

I have completed my master's degree, studying the adaptations of skeletal muscle to resistance training. My goal has always been to identify the most effective and efficient methods for strength training to build muscle, lose fat, improve strength, and enhance overall performance. Early in my career, I researched how the frequency of resistance training affects lean mass and strength. My PhD research, which explored the early adaptations of skeletal muscle and strength from high-volume and high-frequency resistance training in advanced trainees, has direct and practical applications for the field of exercise science.

I am enthusiastic about teaching and mentoring students, encouraging them to develop research questions based on gaps in existing research and to design methods to answer those questions. I am committed to helping others improve their health and fitness, which includes teaching students to serve their communities and the people they will work with.

Q: What inspired you to join Bastyr University, and how does your background influence your teaching approach?

Dr. Leap: I am drawn to Bastyr's mission and feel that this is the ideal place for me. My personal mission aligns closely with Bastyr’s values. Teaching in this program allows me to apply my extensive training and experiences as a practitioner, educator, and athlete to benefit the students.

Q: What online teaching methods do you employ to ensure students remain engaged and effectively absorb the material?

Dr. Thomas: Video has been a significant aid in my online teaching over the years. It is beneficial for students to see and hear from their teacher, particularly in a remote learning environment. I create concise and relevant videos related to the course material. In recent years, I have found that leaving audio comments on student assignments has been effective, and I have also begun incorporating audio and video within weekly discussion forums.

Q: What distinguishes Bastyr University's online Master of Science in Exercise Science program from similar programs? 

Dr. Leap: This program is not like most other programs in exercise science as it incorporates a holistic approach. The curriculum is woven from the same fabric as other Bastyr programs, which recognize the connection between a true wellness approach and how best to put the body in motion. 

In our classes, students will find that the curriculum has been created to encourage them to apply what is being taught easily in practical settings. It recognizes that students will come with different backgrounds and experiences, meets students where they are, and allows them the opportunity to acquire new levels of learning that will separate them from others in their respective fields.