Dr. Chris Clark Honored with 2026 SEATA Education/Administration Award
02/19/2026
Jacksonville State University’s commitment to preparing highly skilled, ethical healthcare professionals was recognized on a regional stage this month as Dr. Chris Clark, Master’s in Athletic Training Program Director, received the 2026 Education/Administration Award from the Southeast Athletic Trainers’ Association (SEATA).
Dr. Clark was honored during SEATA’s Annual Meeting held February 5–7 in Atlanta. The award recognizes athletic trainers who demonstrate exceptional leadership in education and administration and who make significant contributions to advancing the profession.
According to SEATA, the Education/Administration Award is presented to members who are committed to teaching athletic training skills and serving in leadership roles at their institutions. Recipients must be certified members of SEATA, licensed in their respective states, and provide clear evidence of meaningful educational or administrative impact within the organization.
“I am incredibly honored to receive the 2026 SEATA Education/Administration Athletic Trainer Award,” Dr. Clark said. “This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of the numerous students, colleagues, and mentors who have shaped my journey. I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the education, leadership, and advancement of the athletic training profession. Furthermore, this award represents my passion for developing future athletic trainers and advancing our profession and reminds me why I chose this profession — to serve, educate, and positively impact the next generation of athletic trainers. I am thankful for the support of my family, students, colleagues, and mentors - particularly the administration, fellow educators, and students at Jacksonville State University!”
Dr. Clark also emphasized the collaborative nature of the program’s success, expressing appreciation for Dr. Jennifer Savage Burgett, Coordinator of Clinical Education.
“I also want to add my sincere thanks to Dr. Jennifer Savage Burgett, who is our Coordinator of Clinical Education (CCE), for our program. She is awesome and does so many things for our program, CHPW, Kinesiology, and our students.”
Under Dr. Clark’s leadership, Jax State’s Master’s in Athletic Training program has continued to strengthen its reputation for academic rigor, clinical excellence, and student-centered preparation. The program equips graduates with the knowledge, hands-on experience, and professional values necessary to serve athletes and physically active individuals across a variety of settings.
Dr. Tracey Matthews, Dean of the College of Health Professions and Wellness, said the honor reflects both Dr. Clark’s leadership and the broader impact of the program.
“We are incredibly proud of Dr. Chris Clark for being recognized as the Education/ Administration Awardee by SEATA,” she said. “This well-deserved recognition highlights his exceptional leadership, passion for athletic training, and tireless dedication to advancing the profession. Dr. Clark’s impact is felt far beyond our campus, and we are proud to see his work honored on a regional stage.”
The recognition shines a spotlight on Jax State’s continued investment in high-quality healthcare education and its role in shaping the next generation of athletic training professionals across the Southeast.