Biography

Andrea Taliaferro, Ph.D., CAPE, is a Professor in the Department of Educational and Developmental Science. She is the Program Coordinator for the Physical Education Program, and also coordinates the Master’s in Adapted Physical Education Program. She holds a national certification from NCPERID as a Certified Adapted Physical Educator and has experience working with individuals with disabilities in a variety of physical activity/education contexts including school- and community-based programming. She has contributed to interdisciplinary initiatives including McDowell CHOICES and the National Inclusion Project Partnership. She currently serves as an Advisory Council member for the National Drowning Prevention Alliance and has served as the Vice-President (2019-2021) and Member -At-Large (2012-2014, 2021-2023) for the National Consortium for Physical Education for Individuals with Disabilities.

Education

Ph.D., Education, Kinesiology-Adapted Physical Education, The University of Virginia (2010)
M.Ed., Health and Physical Education-Adapted Physical Education, The University of Virginia (2002)
B.S., Kinesiology/Physical Education, James Madison University (2000)

Research

Taliaferro’s research focuses on minimizing health disparities for individuals with disabilities through the improvement of inclusive physical activity opportunities in school- and community- based settings. Specifically, her research explores (a) teacher/instructor preparation and self-efficacy toward teaching individuals with disabilities, (b) barriers and facilitators to inclusion, and (c) physical activity policy and related interventions within educational and community settings. 

Awards

• 2022 James Madison University Department of Kinesiology Outstanding Alumni Award
• 2021 James and Karen Caveney Alumni Association Faculty Excellence Award, West Virginia University
  Recognizes the contributions of a highly productive WVU faculty member who demonstrates excellence in teaching and research alongside a commitment to the people of West Virginia
• 2020 SHAPEWV Dana Brooks Professional Mentor Award
• 2019 WVU Foundation Outstanding Teacher Award
• 2018 WVU Shining Star Award for Outstanding Teaching
• 2017 West Virginia AHPERD Recreation and Leisure Leadership Award
• 2016 West Virginia AHPERD Scholar Award
• 2013 West Virginia AHPERD Young Professional Award