Jordan Karas

Background

About Jordan Karas

I have dedicated the last six years to researching teen pregnancy and STI prevention. I work with brilliant individuals who add tremendous value to the world of academia. I have the great privilege to work at Cabarrus Health Alliance (CHA) and partner with organizations who are on the forefront of innovative approaches to address adolescent sexual health. As a result, I have been able to participate in research projects and add to the literature of teen pregnancy prevention. A large portion of my time at CHA is spent on the TRAIL (Taking Responsible Actions in Life) program, a federal research project through the Office of Population Affairs. Preventing teen pregnancy and other numerous risk factors associated with teens is a complex challenge that requires and deserves a comprehensive, multi-level approach. Programming components include universal, targeted and intensive strategies that suggest interventions are more sustainable if components target multiple levels. Rigorous research has broadened my scope of abilities to not only coordinate, but manage large-scale projects. I hope to continue to contribute to the research on adolescent health from a positive youth development (PYD) perspective. Successful adolescent development is viewed not just as the absence of risky behavior, but as the presence of promotive positive attributes that enable youth to reach their potential as productive and engaged adults.