
"Dr. Thomas is the first professor I've had who genuinely cares about his students. Contrary to most other courses where online assignments are "busy work,' every assignment in his course was useful. He provided personalized feedback, encouraged us every week, and even made changes to the syllabus to help us succeed. Before taking this class, I thought that nonprofit financial management was boring and difficult. Thanks to Dr. Thomas, now I like financial management and want to keep learning about it. I cannot thank the professor enough for making such a positive impact on my life and the lives of my classmates."
WHAT STUDENTS ARE SAYING
Selected Research Publications
Dr. Thomas's research interests broadly focus on the relationship between strategic management and citizen engagement. More recently, he has explored the impact of “super citizens” on advocacy and administrative change with sport as a common setting. His research appears in several of the field's most respected outlets. You can find samples of his research below:

We Can’t Just Shut Up and Play: How the NBA and WNBA are Helping Dismantle Systemic Racism
Appearing in Administrative Theory & Praxis
Click here for article

Game On, Washington! Examining American Sport’s Response to the Uvalde Massacre
Appearing in the Journal of Nonprofit & Public Affairs
Click here for article

Swooshed: How Nike and the City of New York Could Potentially Change the Landscape of City Branding Through Apparel Licensing Agreements
Appearing in Public Administration Review
Click here for article
ABOUT BLAIR
THE BASICS
M. Blair Thomas, PhD, MPH, MPA is an award-winning Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science at Western Kentucky University. His research broadly focuses on the relationship between strategic management and citizen engagement. Across a variety of delivery methods, he has taught 36 different courses across the public administration and political science fields.
CURRENT ROLES
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Assistant Professor, Department of Political Science, Western Kentucky University
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University Athletic Representative, Western Kentucky University
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Faculty Senate, Western Kentucky University
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Associate Editor, Public Integrity; Administrative Theory & Praxis
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Editorial Board, International Journal of Public Administration
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Bowling Green Human Rights Commission
EDUCATION
- Ph.D. in Public Administration and Policy, Askew School of Public Administration, Florida State University
- M.P.A, Askew School of Public Administration, Florida State University
- Financial Management Certificate, Askew School of Public Administration, Florida State University
- M.P.H., Hatfield School of Government, Portland State University
- B.A., Political Science, The University of Portland
BEYOND THE BOOKS
Away from the classroom, Dr. Thomas is a dedicated fan of the Boston Celtics and Chelsea FC soccer club. A native of Portland, Oregon, you are likely to find him pursuing the perfect hazelnut latte, riffing about how to bring sport fashion into the classroom or chasing his Mini Aussiedoodle, Tatum.
CONTACT BLAIR
Feel free to reach out to discuss collaborations, research opportunities, or to simply share your thoughts. Let's connect!
PHONE
(270) 745-4559
OFFICE
Western Kentucky University
Cherry Hall 314
1906 College Heights Blvd.
Bowling Green, KY 42101