Inaugural awards honor ASHS alumni
Posted: June 21, 2013
Two ASHS alumni received inaugural awards in recognition of their contributions to their professions, communities, and alma mater.
Rogers
The Distinguished Service Award was awarded to Bethany Rogers, MS, ATC, ’07, for her work in bringing athletic training services to youth in inner-city schools. With the majority of youth not having access to athletic trainers, those dealing with sport-related injuries can often end up in a lifetime of inactivity, increasing the risk for obesity and related conditions. As CEO of the Student Athlete Foundation of Kansas (SAF-K), Rogers has helped provide this essential service to a population that already has limited access to healthcare. Her dedication to the underserved truly represents the lasting impact on society through professional and voluntary accomplishments that the Distinguished Service Award symbolizes.
“I am grateful to the faculty who nominated me and to the physicians, athletic trainers, and other staff I work with at SAF-K,” said Rogers. “SAF-K is a great organization … It has been a privilege to work for and help develop this organization, as well as to serve the athletes, coaches, and schools here in Kansas City, Kan.”
Dr. DiDonna (right)
Tom DiDonna, DHSc, MSN, ’10, received the Humanitarian of the Year Award for his commitment to improving global health. His extensive volunteer experience with organizations such as Operation Smile and Helping Babies Breathe has earned him considerable admiration around the world. His passion for training other healthcare professionals has not only inspired them, but also has given them the advanced skills needed to improve and sustain the health of their own communities. The Humanitarian of the Year Award honors those who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, enthusiasm, and leadership through volunteer service.
“I am humbled at being chosen as the inaugural recipient of the Humanitarian of the Year Award. I want to thank my wife, Barbara, for her support. I am hopeful [the award] will be the beginning of many years of recognizing worthy individuals who dedicate their time, resources, and heart to the mission of helping those less fortunate,” said Dr. DiDonna, who also is an adjunct professor for the Doctor of Health Sciences program at ASHS.