To continue and build upon our mission and vision for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) Dr. Haladay, School Director, Associate Professor, and Associate Dean recently appointed Rebecca Lopez, PhD, ATC, CSCS, Associate Professor & Program Director Post-Professional Athletic Training Program as our Assistant School Director to lead those initiatives. Our physical therapy and athletic training programs have both been working and trying to improve these key areas which are vital parts of the success of healthcare. The creation and appointment of this new leadership position allows our programs (DPT & AT) and future programs to combine our initiatives under the School, and work together on these key areas.
Dr. Haladay said “Dr. Lopez is a great fit for this position due to her dedication and work within both her professional and personal life on diversity, equity, and inclusion.” She is a leading member within the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) , and particularly on diversity and inclusion within that organization. She created and served as the Chair of the SEATA LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee. She currently serves as the Co-Chair of the NATA Diversity, Equity, inclusion, & Access Task Force, the Chair of the NATA LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee, and provides NATA Safe Space Ally Trainings.
Dr. Lopez said “I am excited to learn about all the great things our students, faculty, and staff have been doing on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and to continue to move or School and programs forward in these areas. I look forward in the coming weeks to meet with students, staff, and faculty to get to know them, understand their role in DEI, and learn the needs of our diverse community.”
The role of the Assistant School Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is to advise SPT&RS leadership, faculty, staff and students on diversity, equity, and inclusion matters and to promote the School’s commitment to a climate of equity & inclusion through interaction with other DEI efforts within the Morsani College of Medicine, USF Health and the University.