President-Elect
Heath Blackmon
It is with great honor and gratitude that I accept the nomination for President Elect of ALATA. As I reflect on my journey as Treasurer, I am filled with appreciation for the incredible individuals who have supported me along the way. Born and raised in Hayden, AL., I developed a passion for Athletic Training at a young age after sustaining an injury. I earned my Bachelors in Athletic Training from University of West Alabama, where I served as President of the Sports Medicine Club. Over the past 4 years, I have dedicated myself to Treasurer as well as the chair for opportunity grants, scholarships and awards. As Treasurer and chairman, I have had the privilege of leading initiatives which have not only advanced our mission but have also fostered a sense of unity and purpose among our members. While serving as Treasurer, I was able to help secure a record number of sponsors for ALATA at 37 this past year, and I hope to increase our partnerships in the future. As head of the chair for grants, scholarships and awards, we were able to recognize and award over 20 athletic trainers and award over $30,000 to future athletic trainers in scholarships. Last year, I was a part of the Salary Survey Task Force where we were able to collect and decipher data to provide a resource for ATs to advocate for themselves. As part of the Constitution and By-Laws Task Force we were able to update these to match the vision for ALATA. I believe that strong leadership is rooted in listening, empathy, and inclusivity. If elected, my vision is to create an environment where every voice is heard and valued. Together, we can tackle the challenges ahead, build on our successes, and inspire the next generation of leaders. Thank you for considering my nomination. I am excited about the opportunity to serve and collaborate with each of you as we work towards a brighter future for ALATA.
Kirby Kelley
Kirby Kelley is the Medical Education Manager for Prime Surgical, a distributor of Arthrex. She completed her bachelor’s at Georgia College in Athletic Training followed by her Master’s in Health Studies at the University of Alabama. Kirby worked 9 years in the physician practice setting alongside orthopedic surgeons both in clinic and in the operating room. She has her Orthopedic Technologist Certification (OTC) and started the ASMI R.T. Floyd Athletic Training Residency Program. During her tenure, she worked with orthopedists specializing in sports medicine, joint replacement, hip preservation and ortho spine. Kirby managed students while maintaining a high volume clinic schedule and assisted in the operating room.
Kirby currently serves as ALATA Vice President, as the Chair of the Physicians Practice Committee, and is a member of the Government Affairs Committee. She has obtained several accolades including the 2021 Clinical, Industrial, & Military Athletic Trainer of the Year and the 2022 Georgia College Young Alumna of the Year.
Kirby has a passion for teaching and mentorship. She regularly guest lectures at her alma maters and has spoken at state and district meetings. Kirby has been a preceptor for Athletic Training students and Physician Assistant students, has trained medical students, and now educates orthopedic sales representatives and orthopedic surgeons as Medical Education Manager.
It would be an honor and a privilege to be elected President Elect for the Alabama Athletic Trainers’ Association.