February 3, 2016

SVSU's Berry honored as outstanding educator by regional athletic training organization

Saginaw Valley State University's David Berry, professor of kinesiology, recently was named the 2016 Outstanding Educator award recipient by the Great Lakes Athletic Training Association. The award recognizes educators for their work both with students and professionals.

“It's always an honor to be identified by students, peers and colleagues as someone who can impact students' and professionals' growth and development as well,” Berry said.

The Great Lakes Athletic Training Association is one of 10 districts that constitute the National Athletic Trainers Association, a professional organization of athletic trainers. The regional district encompasses Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin.

One of his former students, Rachel Katch, nominated Berry for the Outstanding Educator award.

“He realizes your potential and does not, and will not, stop pushing you until he feels you have reached it,” Katch said.

A St. Charles native who earned a bachelor's degree in athletic training in 2014, Katch today‌ is pursuing a master's degree in kinesiology at the University of Connecticut. She wrote the following in a letter recommending Berry for the award:

“Even now, with me having moved 800 miles away to pursue my graduate degree, we still keep in contact and he still encourages me to shoot for the stars. He is a great influence and mentor to look up to. He will constantly push you to be successful not because he finds amusement in adding stress to your life, but because he knows what you can accomplish, and that you can be more than just an average student.”

Berry is active with a number of athletic training associations, providing presentations at a number of conferences. He also has empowered over 40 students to make oral or poster presentations at various conferences over the last five years.

Berry is no stranger to awards. He was named 2015 Distinguished Athletic Trainer of the Year by the Michigan Athletic Trainers Society as well as 2015 Most Distinguished Athletic Trainer by the National Athletic Trainers Association.

Both awards recognize individuals who demonstrate commitment to leadership, volunteer service, advocacy and professional activities as an athletic trainer.