Explore Philly With Mercedes Himmons

By Leona Scott 

An assistant athletic trainer at Southern Connecticut State University and a Philadelphia native, Mercedes Himmons, MS, LAT, ATC, brings both insider knowledge and deep professional roots to her recommendations for the 77th NATA Clinical Symposia & AT Expo June 29-July 2. She has spent years giving back to the athletic training community, first as someone who was “voluntold” to get involved, and now as the one doing the telling.

“I’ve always tried to give back in some capacity,” she said. “Now I’m the one telling  others, ‘You should do this. You’re going to do this.’”

Start With People, Not Sessions

For first-time attendees, Himmons’s first piece of advice has nothing to do with CEUs.

Go to the NATA Happy Hour.

“It’s a great opportunity to see people in a more relaxed setting,“ she said. “You can start building relationships right away by meeting people, finding out what sessions they’re attending and even making plans to go together.”

Those early conversations tend to shape the rest of the week. A quick introduction at the welcome event can become a shared session, a new professional contact or a collaboration that extends long past the closing keynote.

She also recommends attending a town hall aligned with your interests. For Himmons, that means the Ethnic Diversity Advisory Committee Town Hall, a space she describes as both grounding and energizing.

“It’s a space where you can connect with others, learn what’s happening across districts and celebrate the accomplishments of our members,” she said.

The session typically includes introductions to district representatives, recognition of member achievements and updates on national initiatives. It also features a partnership with the National Marrow Donor Program, offering attendees the opportunity to join the bone marrow and stem cell donor registry on-site.

“Sometimes people feel more comfortable participating in that setting,” Himmons said. “It’s a way for us to support the broader community and potentially make a life-saving impact.”

The Convention’s Bigger Picture

Himmons sees the annual gathering as something more than a professional development event. For a profession that increasingly grapples with burnout, it’s a reminder that athletic trainers don’t have to navigate their careers alone.

“People are working 40 to 80 hours a week, and that’s not sustainable,” she said. “We’re seeing a shift where people are setting boundaries and recognizing their time has value.”

She emphasizes the importance of maintaining an identity beyond the profession.

“I am an athletic trainer, but athletic training does not define me,” she said. “We have to take care of ourselves the same way we take care of others.”

Those conversations about burnout, career transitions and personal goals happen most naturally in person. That’s part of what makes the convention irreplaceable.

“It’s different when you can be in person,” Himmons said. “Sharing ideas, talking about challenges and supporting each other.”

A City That Delivers

Outside the convention center, Himmons said Philadelphia will exceed expectations if attendees have an adventurous spirit and are willing to explore.

Her first recommendation requires almost no effort: Reading Terminal Market, located directly across from the convention center, spans several city blocks and houses a rotating mix of vendors, restaurants and specialty shops.

“You could eat somewhere different every day of the convention,” she said.

Her personal highlights include Beiler’s Donuts, known for its creative rotating flavors, and the classic roast pork sandwich (provolone, long hot peppers) at DiNic’s that Philadelphians consider a civic institution. Amish-owned vendors offer fresh-baked goods, candy and specialty items. Termini Brothers Bakery, famous for its freshly filled cannoli, is worth seeking out for the sweet-toothed.

For something off the tourist path, Himmons recommends Silk City Diner: low-key, eclectic, with a garden-style outdoor area.

“It’s a good vibe for all ages,” she said.

A Once-in-a-Generation Backdrop

This year’s convention lands during an especially significant moment for the city. Philadelphia will be in full preparation for Fourth of July celebrations and the 250th anniversary of American independence; events centered near Independence Hall are just blocks from the convention center.

Himmons encourages attendees to take it in.

“You’re in the birthplace of America,“ she said. “If you have the opportunity to experience that, you should.”

Make the Most of It

Himmons’ parting advice for first-timers is simple: be intentional.

Attend sessions that challenge you. Introduce yourself to someone you admire. Eat something you’ve never tried. Walk a few blocks past the convention center and see what the city actually looks like.

“This is your time to learn, connect and experience something new,” she said. “Make the most of it.”