In honor of Pride Month, throughout June, NATA Now is highlighting members of the NATA LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee and their impact on the profession.
Evan Bader, MAT, AT, ATC, aspired to become an athletic trainer having been its beneficiary as a student athlete.
“As an athlete growing up, I had my fair share of injuries and was exposed to the field of athletic training,” Bader said.
Since becoming an athletic trainer, Bader has not only contributed to the advancement of profession as an AT in the secondary school setting, but also a volunteer leader.
In his role as NATA LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee District Four representative, Bader said he aims to enhance a sense of belonging and empowerment within the profession’s LGBTQIA+ community.
Here is some insight into his pursuit of representation and community in athletic training.
What was your first volunteer position within the athletic training profession and why did you get involved?
This is my first volunteer position within NATA besides volunteering at the NATA Clinical Symposia & AT Expo. I wanted to get involved with a committee’s cause that is near and dear to me and the betterment of athletic training.
What do you hope to accomplish as NATA LGBTQ+ Advisory Committee District Four representative?
I want to foster connection and belonging. I want to help build a stronger LGBTQIA+ community within NATA – where members feel connected, valued and empowered to be their authentic selves both personally and professionally.
Why is representation in leadership important and how does it impact the profession?
Representation in leadership is crucial in the profession of athletic training because it directly influences equity, professional culture, decision-making and the development of future leaders.
How has volunteering helped you grow personally and professionally?
Volunteering has helped me personally by increasing my empathy and self-awareness. It has helped me professionally by strengthening my leadership and collaboration skills.
What’s your fondest memory of serving so far?
I am just starting my volunteering experience, but so far, I have enjoyed meeting new people and forming new connections across the profession that I would not have without volunteering.
What advice do you have for other athletic trainers who want to give back to the profession?
My advice is to get out and do it. Get your feet wet and start volunteering. When we come together and put our heads, thoughts and actions together, a lot can get accomplished.
