AMHERST, N.Y. – For the fourth consecutive year, Daemen College’s athletic training graduates have earned a 100 percent first-time pass rate on the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) Board of Certification exam, far exceeding the national average of 83 percent. 

“We are very proud of the success of our newest athletic training graduates on this rigorous national exam,” said Dr. Michael Brogan, vice president for academic affairs and dean of the college. “The consistently high success rate achieved on the exam is a true reflection of the strength of our program’s robust curriculum, the caliber of our students, and the effectiveness of our exceptional faculty in preparing our students at the highest professional level.”

Daemen’s 2016 athletic training graduates who attained a 100 percent first-time pass rate on the NATA Board of Certification exam are Paulina Behrens of Massena; Kolleen Brown of Willet; Joelle Davis of Buffalo; Rachel Reichart of Marilla; Meghan Short of Sandown, N.H.; Mitch Taffe of Ortonville, Minn.; Stephanie Woleben of Brocton; and Luis Zuniga of Rochester.

The exam tests knowledge, skills and abilities essential to the performance of athletic trainers. Once certified, athletic trainers, who specialize in the prevention, evaluation and rehabilitation of orthopedic injuries and conditions, must meet ongoing continuing education to remain certified.

Dr. Nicole Chimera, athletic training program director and associate professor, said the “impressive pass rates achieved on the certification exam over the past four years are a credit to the high standards we have set in the program. Clinical experiences offered in a range of professional settings coupled with a research component bolster the training and education students need to become skilled, qualified athletic training professionals.”

Daemen’s athletic training program, which was established in 2008, is one of only two in New York State and among 65 in the U.S. offered at the master’s level. Accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training (CAATE), the program has state-of-the-art educational facilities in the college’s new Academic and Wellness Center.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of athletic trainers is expected to grow 21 percent from 2014-2024, a rate much faster than the average for all occupations.

Additional information about Daemen’s athletic training program is available by calling 839-8413 or email nchimera@daemen.edu.