Faculty Elected State President of Athletic Trainers Association

Pradeep R. Vanguri, Ph.D., LAT, ATC, professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance (HHP) in the Dr. Pallavi Patel College of Health Care Sciences, was elected president of the Athletic Trainers’ Association of Florida (ATAF). Having previously served as the education committee chair, secretary, and vice-president, Vanguri is currently serving a one-year term as president-elect before officially entering the role of President in January 2024.

ATAF is the fourth-largest state association, by membership, in the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) and the largest state association within the Southeast Athletic Trainers’ Association (SEATA). The president of ATAF serves as the leader of the state association and a member of the district (SEATA) board of directors. Through these leadership roles, the ATAF president directly supports the practice of over 2000 athletic trainers in Florida and influences policy at the district level.

Pattie Tripp, Ph.D., LAT, ATC, current ATAF president, states, “I started serving within ATAF as a member of the Education Committee, chaired at the time by Dr. Vanguri. During the past 15 years our organization has expanded membership support, recruited diverse individuals, and provided evidence-based information through our symposium educational sessions and committee resources.”  During his time on the ATAF Board, Vanguri also contributed to the revision and update of the rules and regulations for the Florida Board of Athletic Training which affected the practice for athletic trainers working with lobbyists, lawyers, and state government officials.

NATA Hall of Fame member Frank Walters, Ph.D., LAT, ATC states, “The role of the incoming ATAF president carries great significance, and Dr. Vanguri past service, leadership, and experience serves as a testament to his commitment and dedication to advancing our profession. He is an individual with a strong track-record of clinical, administrative, and professional organization knowledge.” As president, Vanguri can pave the way for innovation, professional growth, and improved professional standards in Florida for athletic trainers.

Posted 11/05/23