2026 Summer Newsletter

President's Report

Carrie Burke, MAT, LAT, ATC - President

Hello Fellow NYSATA Members,

It’s hard to believe that I’m writing my final newsletter entry as NYSATA President. These past two years have truly flown by , and I’m incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together as an organization.

One of our greatest achievements was the successful passage of licensure legislation  — a milestone that represents years of dedication, advocacy, and collaboration. We have also continued to make steady progress working alongside other organizations on important legislative initiatives, and I’m excited to see that engagement continue to grow in the years ahead.

Our Executive Board has worked diligently to establish a strong strategic plan for the future of NYSATA . We are hopeful that even more members will become involved as we continue building an even stronger, more cohesive organization moving forward.

While it is bittersweet to step away from this role, I am extremely optimistic about the future leadership of our organization. I look forward to seeing NYSATA continue to grow under the leadership of Chris Napoli as he moves into the presidential position, alongside our incoming President-Elect, Kevin Joyce .

There are many exciting updates highlighted throughout this newsletter, ranging from our concussion outreach, prevention, and education initiatives  to ongoing governmental affairs and legislative efforts. We are also continuing to focus on best practices as a state organization and expanding collaboration with professionals from other areas to help ensure the quality, strength, and longevity of NYSATA for years to come.

I hope to continue seeing many of you at local events , and I am excited for everything the future holds for NYSATA. As always, our doors remain open, our emails are always available, and we encourage you to reach out with any questions, concerns, or ideas.

I’m looking forward to seeing all of you at the upcoming NYSATA Conference in Rochester in just a few weeks . I hope everyone’s seasons are wrapping up successfully and that you are looking forward to spending quality time with family and friends this summer .

Thank you all for your continued support, dedication, and passion for our profession .

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President-Elect Report

Chris Napoli, MS, LAT, ATC - President-Elect

Preparing for a Strong Start – June 5, 2026

As we move into the heart of 2026, I am both honored and energized as I prepare to assume the presidency of NYSATA on June 5, 2026. Since our last newsletter, there have been many moving parts across our profession, locally, nationally, and even on the global stage, as this Olympic year highlights the visibility, impact, and importance of sports medicine and athletic training worldwide.

2026 marks a milestone year for NYSATA.  It is a pivotal moment not only to reflect on how far our Association has come, but to intentionally shape where we are headed next.

As shared previously, my vision for NYSATA is grounded in clarity, connection, and long‑term organizational strength. The 2026 NYSATA Annual Meeting & Conference  will provide an opportunity to celebrate our past while reaffirming these values, bringing us together as a stronger profession with a united purpose and shared commitment to the future.

2026 Annual Meeting Leadership Sessions

In conjunction with the 2026 NYSATA Annual Meeting & Conference, we will host two important leadership sessions for the Executive Council (EC) and Leadership Committees (LC):

For those planning to utilize public transportation, please note that the Saturday meeting will conclude no later than 4:00 PM. Additional details, including agendas and logistical information, will be shared later this spring.

These meetings will play a key role in aligning leadership, ensuring continuity, and setting a strong tone for the year ahead.

Presidential Vision & First 100 Days Priorities

My first 100 days as President will be focused on strengthening our foundation, improving communication, and positioning NYSATA for sustainable growth and long‑term success.

Strategic planning ensures intentional progress rather than reactive decision‑making.

• A More United Profession

Above all, my primary goal is to unite athletic trainers across New York State, region to region, setting to setting, clinician to clinician. Our voice is strongest when we move forward together.

• • Improved communication from the Executive Board to the membership
  • More efficient Association administration
  • Alignment with State Association best practices
  • Growth of the athletic training profession through focused legislative advocacy
  • Support for strong educational standards
  • Retention of athletic trainers within both NYSATA and New York State
  • Increased student and young professional engagement

Member Recognition & Achievements

As we look ahead to a strong and purposeful year for NYSATA, it is equally important that we take time to celebrate the outstanding accomplishments of our members. These achievements reflect the excellence, leadership, and impact of athletic trainers across New York State.

• Jeff Sage
  • Jeff has been named the 2026 NCAA Division II Head Athletic Trainer of the Year by the NATA Intercollegiate Council for Sports Medicine (ICSM). This prestigious national honor recognizes his exceptional commitment to clinical excellence, leadership, and service to student‑athletes at the Division II level.
  • Jeff has also been awarded the Michael Goldenberg College and University Grant, highlighting his continued dedication to professional growth, innovation, and advancement within the collegiate athletic training setting.

• Kevin Joyce
  • Kevin is a recipient of the Michael Goldenberg Secondary School Grant, recognizing his commitment to enhancing athletic training services and student‑athlete care within the secondary school environment.
  • Kevin has also been selected for the NATA D2 Leadership Initiative Grant, reflecting his dedication to leadership development and long‑term professional engagement.

Looking Ahead

I firmly believe that the future of NYSATA is bright, not by chance, but by direction, shared purpose, and collaboration. I look forward to working alongside each of you to strengthen our Association and the profession we are all proud to represent.

Thank you for your continued dedication, leadership, and support. I am honored to serve and excited to officially begin this journey with you on June 5, 2026.

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Treasurer Report

Adam Hymowitz LAT, ATC - Treasurer

Proposed Membership Dues Restructuring

The NYSATA Executive Council officially approved a motion on April 6th, 2026, to update our membership dues structure to ensure the long-term financial health and operational sustainability of our association.

The Motion

The proposal includes a primary adjustment to professional membership dues to $70 in 2027. To provide predictable financial planning for both the association and our members, the motion includes a scheduled $5 increase every three years through 2042. Additionally, student dues are proposed to increase to $20 in 2027.

Impact and Value

• Revenue Growth: This change is projected to generate approximately $24,000 in additional annual revenue starting in 2027, which will be reinvested into member services and professional advocacy.

• Competitive Standing: Even with the proposed change, NYSATA’s total membership cost remains highly competitive, ranking approximately T-11th among compared states.

• Predictability: The long-term schedule prevents the need for sudden, large-scale increases in the future.

Professional Dues Schedule

Notice of Official Vote

In accordance with our commitment to transparency, all members are being notified of this proposal at least 30 days in advance of the general assembly.

• Date of Vote: June 5th, 2026 (In person only)

• Location: NYSATA Annual State Meeting

We encourage all members to review the data and attend the meeting to participate in this important decision for the future of our profession.

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Secretary Report

Missy Wilson, MS, LAT, ATC, CEP - Secretary 

Renew Now

Make sure you opt in to communications with NATA to receive NYSATA communications and be a NYSATA member. 

Membership Update

D2 at a Glance

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Regional Reps

Region 1 LI

Nassau, Suffolk

Kristin LoNigro, MSEd, LAT, ATC

College/Univeristy - Academic

Region 1 NYC

Richmond, Kings, Queens, Bronx, New York

Erica Marcano, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS

Clinic/Outreach 

Region 2

Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Sullivan, Orange, Dutchess, Ulster

Meg Greiner, MS, LAT, ATC

Secondary School 

Region 3

Montgomery, Delaware, Fulton, Greene, Otsego, Saratoga, Albany, Rensslear, Schenectady, Columbia, Washington, Schoharie, Herkimer

Dave Haverly, MS, LAT, ATC

Emerging Setting 

Region 4

Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence, Franklin, Hamilton, Clinton, Essex, Warren

Jason Pachter, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS

College/University 

Region 5

Chemung, Tioga, Broome, Oswego, Cayuga, Seneca, Oneida, Cortland, Onondaga, Madison, Tompkins, Schuyler

Kevin Joyce, MSEd, LAT, ATC, CSCS

Secondary School

Region 6

Livingston, Ontario, Monroe, Yates, Stueben, Wayne

Phil Steckley, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS

College/University

Region 7

Orleans, Cattaraugus, Genesee, Wyoming, Erie, Niagara, Allegany, Chautauqua

Cleon Clayton, MS, LAT, ATC, CPT

Secondary School 

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Region 1 LI Report

Kristin LoNigro, MSEd, LAT, ATC - Representative

Retirement

Hofstra University

Hofstra celebrated National Athletic Training Month by hosting two CPR/AED Narcan certification courses to students, staff and faculty. The students had the opportunity to meet with the Orlin and Cohen AT Staff for a Q and A on preparing for interviewing and post graduate professional life. 

We extend our sincere appreciation to Mike Goldenberg for leading an informative Resume Building Workshop. During this session, students participated in peer resume critiques and gained valuable insight into effective networking strategies at professional conferences, including developing and refining their one-minute elevator pitches. 

Additionally, the Hofstra Athletic Training Program proudly participated in the National Athletic Training Month event at the TODAY Show. 

The students participate in the National Public Health Week Interprofessional film competition. Three minute Films were created around the 2026 theme, Ready, Set, Action. 4 groups of athletic training students competed along with 28 other groups of students from the Physician Assistant Program, Nursing and the Creative Arts Therapy Program. Congrats to the AT group: Emergency Preparedness in Youth Sports focusing on the importance of certification of CPR/AED and creating CERP (Cardiac Emergency Response) plans for coming in second place. 

Our second year students participated in an interprofessional educational event, PACE (Pain and Addiction Care Education) focused on substance use disorders, opioid misuse, and patient-centered approaches to care. Through collaboration with students from other healthcare disciplines, participants explored the multifaceted nature of addiction, including its social, physiological, and familial impacts. The event emphasized the importance of empathy, ethical prescribing, and harm reduction strategies in clinical practice. Students also engaged in discussions and applied learning activities centered on overdose recognition and response, levels of care, and available treatment resources. This experience reinforced the value of interprofessional collaboration in addressing the opioid crisis and preparing future healthcare providers to deliver compassionate, informed, and effective care. 

Students participated in a manual therapies workshop, led by Fredrico Diaz. massage therapist from Supreme Wellness. Fredrico spoke about the fundamentals of massage, body mechanics and ethical practices as students were able to practice various massage strokes and cupping.

Stony Brook University

In March, the Stony Brook University School of Health Professions (SHP) held its Outstanding Alumni Award Ceremony recognizing the accomplishments of nominated alum from each program (AT, BSHS, CLS, OT. PA, PT, RC, SLP, Applied Health Informatics & Health Care Policy Management). An in-person and virtual event was conducted to reach students from all programs so they could participate by listening to the valuable messages shared and asking questions of program recipients. This was followed by an in-person reception. Please join us in congratulating Jacqueline Smith’12, as this year’s Athletic Training Outstanding Alumni Award recipient.

Program students and faculty participated in an Interprofessional Education (IPE) event with all students in the School of Health Professions. Throughout the event over 300 students participated in an interactive "Olympic" style event. Participants worked in teams to solve puzzles and complete activities, unlocking clues that lead them through a series of stations. This year's focus was on the Interprofessional Education Collaborative (IPEC) Core Competency of Teams and Teamwork, helping students apply principles of effective collaboration, practice shared leadership, navigate team dynamics, and enhance decision-making skills in a fun, engaging environment designed to strengthen interprofessional development. 

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Region 1 NYC Report

Erica Marcano, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS - Representative

NYC continued our annual tradition of attending TODAY to bring nationwide awareness to NATM. we welcomed MSAT and pre-AT students from 5 Universities, and were joined by AT colleagues from multiple states! This year, we were fortunat4e enough to not only get a shout out from TODAY host (and former athlete) Craig Melvin, but also to have PR support with podcast and newsletter features from NATA, and a post-show breakfast generously sponsored by NYSATA.

View this post on Instagram

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Region 2 Report

Meg Greiner MS, LAT, ATC - Representative

On April 7th, the Section One Athletic Trainers Society held it's annual meeting. Roy Flores and Erica Marcano spoke about advocacy and burnout. There were round table discussions about various topics, and we honored 2 retiring longtime Section 1 Athletic Trainers, Thomas Burns and Mark Smith. Thank you to everyone who attended and presented. 

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Region 3 Report

Dave Haverly, MS, LAT, ATC - Representative 

Members of NYSATA region 3 gathered with other athletic trainers from across NYS in Albany, NY for Lobby Day 2026. Athletic trainers met with state senators and assembly members about legislation throughout the day to promote the profession of athletic training. NYSATA is actively involved in shaping laws related to youth sports CPR certification, concussion protocols, and more. 

Mentorship Program: Supporting the Next Generation

Continuing Education & Social Connection

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Region 5 Report

Kevin Joyce MSEd, LAT, ATC, CSCS - Representative

Cornell University

AT Mia Stefanelli ran an in-service for the staff on different foot and ankle mobility and rehab exercises. The staff enjoyed learning a new perspective that will give them more ideas to benefit the care of their athletes.

Cornell University was the host institution for the Men’s and Women’s Ivy Madness Basketball Tournament for the 2025–2026 season. As the host institution, Cornell University Sports Medicine was responsible for organizing all of the medical coverage associated with the tournament. Through a lot of planning and preparation, the tournament ran smoothly from a medical and operational standpoint, with athletic trainers, physicians, and emergency personnel working collaboratively to ensure the safety and well-being of all student-athletes. The success of the event reflected the team’s commitment to comprehensive care and highlighted the importance of detailed logistical coordination in hosting a high-level collegiate championship.

Cornell ATs spent the day learning, collaborating, and connecting with peers at the SUNY Cortland Sports Medicine Symposium. Stepping away from their daily routines, they engaged with experts in the field and gained valuable insights to bring back to campus.

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Region 6 Report

Phil Steckley, MS, LAT, ATC, CSCS - Representative

Greetings Region 6 member! Thank you to everyone who joined our recent Town Hall meeting regarding NYS licensure updates. It was a productive session, and I appreciate your engagement. If you were unable to attend and would like to review the discussion, please reach out to me directly for the recording.

2026 NYSATA Annual Conference

We are looking forward to the 2026 NYSATA Annual Meeting & Conference, held on June 5th and 6th at the RIT Inn & Conference Center.

Registration is currently open, and space is filling quickly. I encourage you to register soon to secure your spot for what promises to be an excellent educational program. This event is a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with colleagues from across the state, celebrate our shared progress, and engage in meaningful professional development.

Member Recognition: Joe Carr, LAT, ATC

Finally, I would like to formally recognize Joe Carr, LAT, ATC, for his exceptional professional response during a recent event involving two high school wrestlers.

Joe’s decisive and skilled management of a significant c-spine injury and an instance of arterial bleeding were instrumental in ensuring successful outcomes for these student-athletes. His quick actions under pressure reflect the highest standards of our profession. Please join me in commending Joe for his dedication and life-saving expertise.

I look forward to seeing many of you in Rochester this June.

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Region 7 Report

Cleon Clayton, MS, LAT, ATC, CPT - Representative

Scan and follow us on Instagram! Let us grow our social media together.

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Awards Report

Deanna Errico, PT, DPT, LAT, ATC - Chair

As we continue to advance the field of athletic training, it is essential that we take the time to recognize those who demonstrate exceptional commitment and leadership. I encourage you to begin identifying colleagues who have made significant contributions to our profession—whether through their service to NYSATA, District 2 (EATA), the NATA, or through impactful work within their local communities.

Upcoming Nomination Timelines

While formal windows for submissions open later this year, beginning the documentation and selection process now ensures our region is well-represented:

• NATA Awards: Nominations open in July.

• NYSATA Awards: Nominations open in September.

Why Nominate?

Peer recognition is a vital component of professional growth. Celebrating those who go above and beyond—whether through clinical excellence, advocacy, or dedicated mentorship—strengthens our professional community and highlights the "Care You Can Count On" that defines our membership.

I invite you to start "planning ahead to celebrate a friend." Preparing your narratives and gathering supporting details now will allow for a seamless submission process once the portals open.

Let’s ensure the outstanding work being done in our region receives the recognition it deserves.

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Committee Chairs

Awards

Deanna Errico, PT, DPT, LAT, ATC

Region 4, College/University

College and University

Jeff Carter, MSEd, LAT, ATC, EMT-B, CSCS

Region 2, College/University 

Conference and Education

Vacant

Diversity and Inclusion

EDAC Chair

LaTonja Lee, MS, LAT, ATC, PES

Region 1LI, College/University

Fundraising

Thomas Burns, MS, LAT, ATC

Region 2, Secondary School

Governmental Affairs

Aimee Brunelle, MS, LAT, ATC

Region 3, Secondary School

Deanna Errico, PT, DPT, LAT, ATC

Region 4, College/University

Hall of Fame

Bob Gariglio, MSEd, LAT, ATC

Region 1 LI, Secondary School

History and Archives

Vacant

Joseph Abraham Award

Meg Greiner, MS, LAT, ATC

Region 2, Secondary School

Membership and Nominations

Shawn McNamara, DAT, LAT, ATC

Region 1 LI, College/University

Newsletter

Vacant

Public Relations

Vacant

Research/Injury

Vacant

Scholarships

Patrick M. Donnelly, EdD, LAT, ATC

Region 5, College/University

Secondary School

Craig Olejniczak, LAT, ATC

Region 2, Secondary School

Social Media

Vacant

Webmaster

Vacant

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Conference and Education Report

Looking Ahead to our 2026 Annual Meeting & Conference

We are under 40 days from our Annual Meeting and Conference! Registration is still open, Register before it's too late! This event represents not only an opportunity to earn up to 9.5 CEUs, but also a meaningful moment in our Association’s history as we celebrate 50 years of NYSATA. For more information about this fun filled, educational event check out the Annual meeting and conference webpage! Thank you to Phil Steckely, Jamie Heffron, Kristin LoNigro, Missy Wilson, for their time and effort in helping put this event together!

Sponsorship / Vendoring Opportunity

Interested in being a 2026 sponsor or vendor?  Does your employer want to have a table at our conference? We are still gladly accepting vendors and sponsors for our 26’ Meeting!  Register today!

🎉 50th Anniversary Celebration Dinner

To commemorate this milestone, NYSATA will host a 50th Anniversary Celebration Dinner on Friday, June 5, 2026, at the RIT Inn. This evening will honor our Past Presidents, Founding Members, and long-standing contributors who helped shape the Association into what it is today. The celebration starts at 6pm with cocktail hour and we’ll celebrate through the night! Tickets are now available, there will be NO-onsite registration.

📬 Past Presidents & Founding Members

If you are a Past President or Founding Member of NYSATA, please complete this form that was sent to you. If you have already completed the form thank you!  We are looking to capture your time as a leader within our association. This information will help us appropriately recognize your service as part of our anniversary programming.

Thinking of Bringing your Family to Rochester?

We would like to thank our friends at Rochester Sports Commission for assisting us in building this year's event! Watch this short clip on what you can do in Rochester! 

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Fundraising Report

Thomas Burns, MS, LAT, ATC - Chair

We are excited to announce the launch of our Corporate Sponsorship program. For those interested, please contact the NYSATA fundraising chair. 

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Governmental Affairs Report

Aimee Brunelle, MS, LAT, ATC and Deanna Errico, PT, DPT, LAT, ATC - Co-Chairs
Karin Spencer - Spencer Strategic Solutions, LLC

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Membership and Nominations Report

Shawn McNamara, DAT, LAT, ATC -  Chair 

New Committee Chair

On behalf of the New York State Athletic Trainers’ Association, I am pleased to formally welcome Liv Newhouse as the new Chair of the Young Professionals Committee (YPC).

The YPC plays a vital role in our association, focusing on the unique needs of athletic trainers in the early stages of their careers. As Chair, Liv will lead initiatives aimed at professional advocacy, networking, and providing resources to help our newest members transition successfully into the clinical setting.

We are confident that Liv’s leadership will bring fresh energy and perspective to the committee as we continue to support the growth of the next generation of ATs across New York State.

Please join us in congratulating Liv on this appointment. We look forward to the impactful work the Young Professionals Committee will achieve under her guidance.

Volunteer Opportunities

Get involved, make connections, strengthen our profession. 

Why Volunteer: 

Volunteering with NYSATA is more giving your time, it's a chance to connect grow and lead. 

You'll gain: 

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In Memoriam

We honor the memory of our colleagues who have recently passed. Their dedication to the profession of athletic training and the well-being of their athletes leaves a lasting legacy within our community.

Our thoughts are with their families, friends, and the many lives they touched throughout their careers.

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