Brief Biography:
BOC credentialed since 1988, I have a variety of athletic training clinical experiences at Division I, II, and III colleges (private/public settings) within 4 different NATA districts (2, 3, 7, & 9). Since obtaining my PhD in1996, I have been involved in the education of athletic trainers, becoming a program director in 2002, and at Middle Tennessee State University since 2004. I have served TATS as the Co-chair of the Secondary Committee, Co-chair for the Education and Professionalism Committee, as well as TN representative to SEATA Research and Education Committee. I have volunteered for the Athletic Training Board for Tennessee, currently as the Chair. In addition, I received awards within athletic training: TATS and SEATA Educator Awards, NATA Service Award, and Most Distinguished Athletic Trainer Award.
Vision:
My vision for TATS is to become the best state athletic training organization by providing a comprehensive practice act, educational professional development, and promoting members to maintain high quality care and professionalism.
Goals:
I have several goals including, but not limited to:
Revision and update of the TN Athletic Training Practice Act, including:
Obtaining grants and funding to help with lobbying and legislative activities.
Matching the Practice Act with the CAATE Educational Standards and BOC Domains of Practice.
Educating the membership of the changes and impact of those changes.
Advance professional development through increased educational and specialty certifications, addressing current and developing issues/content, and developing mentorship opportunities.
Expand opportunities for engagement and communication using various connection tools including social media and increasing student memberships and involvement.
Advocacy of the profession by building and maintaining relationships with TSSAA and other governing bodies to have current medical standards and on-going communication between organizations; encouraging diversity, equity, and inclusion; and promoting athletic training in a unified voice to a variety of professional settings.