DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION AND ACCESS (DEIA) COMMITTEE
The purpose of the Virginia Athletic Trainers’ Association Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Access (DEIA) Committee is to develop, implement, and evaluate organizational policies and procedures to address diversity, equity, and inclusion issues. To this end, the committee will disseminate information and best practices through ongoing professional development training for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Committee Co-Chair
Kirk J. Armstrong, EdD, LAT, ATC
James Madison University
Dr. Kirk Armstrong is a Professor and Academic Unit Head for the Department of Health Professions at James Madison University. An athletic training educator for more than 13 years, Kirk has expertise in simulations and standardized patients. He has made numerous state, regional and national presentations regarding the use of standardized patients to document student learning outcomes in athletic training.
Kirk has leadership related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. He currently serves as the Chair for the Mid-Atlantic Athletic Trainers’ Association LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee, and as a member of the NATA LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee. He earned his Bachelor of Science from the University of Indianapolis, Master of Science from Middle Tennessee State University, and Doctor of Education from Ball State University.
Kwadwo Donkor currently serves as the head athletic trainer and sports medicine teacher for Staunton High School. He also serves as a clinical site instructor for Bridgewater College for the past seven years. Being an athletic trainer in the secondary school setting for nine years, he also serves on the VATA secondary school committee. Kwadwo received his B.S. from Bridgewater College and is continuing education to receive his teaching certificate. He is happily married to his wife Kirsten, and has three children, Nyamekye, Xavier, and Jadon.
Committee Members:
Jessica Martinez
Patricia Aronson
Heather Bauby
Brittany Brown
Jenn Cuchna
Jasmin DeBerry (Student Representative)