Dr. Lori Portzer Thomas
Assistant Professor of Exercise Science
Professional Philosophy Statement
With a "lift as you climb" philosophy, I strive to bring students to a level of professionalism and excitement that mirrors my own dedication to my profession. Decreasing sedentary time and increasing physical activity within a natural environment and creatively stimulating change are my primary research areas, as well as engaging with obese and/or low SES populations.
Academic Areas of Expertise:
- Physical Activity
- Obesity
- Epidemiology
- Low Socioeconomic Populations
Courses Taught at LVC
EXSC 101/102 Anatomy and Physiology
EXSC 202 Training and Conditioning
EXSC 211 Intro to Human Movement
EXSC 216 Exercise Physiology
EXSC 314 Physical (In)Activity and Health
EXSC 430 Nutritional Aspects of Sport and Disordered Eating
EXSC 451 Research Methods
EXSC 460/461/462 Practicum
IME - Comprehensive Leadership and Professional Development Exercise and Performance Testing
IME - Intercultural Awareness Health Program for Individuals Experiencing Homelessness
IME - Leadership & Professionalism President of Exercise Science Club
Research Topics
- Physical Activity in under-represented populations
- Health Literacy
- Obesity and Weight Management
- Professional Communication in a Practical Setting
Scholarly Work
Publications
Thomas LA, Marx JM, Lupold M, Kinneman A, McGlory H, Miller TY. BMI influence on quality of life following physical activity program for women in homeless shelters. (Thematic poster) American College of Sports Medicine. Annual Meeting, San Francisco, CA. 2020.
Braun D, Portzer LA. Laboratory Manual for Training and Conditioning: Unpublished manuscript, Lebanon Valley College, Lebanon, Pa.
Rogers RJ, Lang W, Gibbs BB, Davis KK, Burke LE, Kovacs SJ, Portzer LA, Jakicic JM. Applying a technology-based system for weight loss intervention in adults with obesity. Obesity Science and Practice. doi: 10.1002/osp4.18
Portzer LA, Rogers RJ, Barone Gibbs B, Hergenroeder AL, Rickman AD, Jakicic JM. Energy Expenditure and Enjoyment of Active Television Viewing. International Journal of Exercise Science. 9(1): 64-76, 2016.
Portzer LA, Jeyabalan A, Gibbs BB, Jakicic JM, Roberts JM, Weissberger TL. Pregnancy and changes in physical activity in overweight and obese, low socio-economic status, African American and Caucasian women. (poster) The Obesity Society. Annual meeting, San Antonio, TX. 2012.
Portzer LA, Jeyabalan A, Gibbs BB, Jakicic JM, Roberts JM, Weissberger TL. Pregnancy and changes in physical activity in overweight and obese, low socio-economic status, African American and Caucasian women. (poster) Magee-Womens Research Institute & Foundation honors. Annual Research Day, Pittsburgh, PA. 2012.
Verba SD, Justice BD, Portzer LA, Ingel R, Jakicic JM. The effect of weight loss and exercise on cardiovascular structure and function in class II and III obese women. American College of Sports Medicine. National Conference, San Francisco, CA. 2012.
Mishler AE, Barone Gibbs B. Goodpaster B. Nagle E. Portzer L. Coppock J. Jakicic JM. The effect of 10- versus 30- minutes of acute aerobic exercise on insulin and glucose in obese adults. American College of Sports medicine. National Conference, San Francisco, CA. 2012.
J.M. Jakicic, D.O. Garcia, R.J. Rogers, J.H. Coppock, A.M. Moody, J.A. Nagle, L.M. Wisniewski, L.A. Portzer. Physical Activity among Overweight and Obese Young Adults: Association with Fitness and BMI. The Obesity Society. Annual meeting, Atlanta, GA. 2013.
Leadership Positions
- American Heart Association Mission Committee
- IME Faculty Supervisor
- EXSC Practicum Coordinator
- Exercise Science Club Faculty Founding Advisor
- STEM-UP Network member
Additional Links
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lorithomasphd
LVC Research Program: https://www.lvc.edu/news/details/students-conduct-educational-fitness-program-at-area-women-s-shelters/
Contact Info
Email Address
lthomas@lvc.edu
Location
AHPP 217
Phone Number
717-867-6873