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For three decades, Susan Houlihan-Davis has been a trailblazer in athletic training at Santa Barbara City College, helping shape the school’s athletic department from the ground up.
Starting her career in an era with minimal female representation in athletics, she’s laid a foundation for sports to thrive in Santa Barbara.
Reflecting on the inequities she observed growing up with five brothers, Houlihan-Davis recalled:
“I remembered wondering, why is this guy treating females so differently? I didn’t want that, so I knew something had to change.”
Over the years, her commitment to student-athletes has led her to establish a team of full-time Athletic Trainers and inspire those around her, including former student and assistant trainer, Julianna Adelman, who credits Houlihan-Davis for her professional growth.
Houlihan-Davis finds her work most rewarding when injured athletes rediscover their confidence.
“The biggest thing I see, especially at this level, is the reward of seeing someone play again after an injury.”
Recognizing the importance of mental health, she noted:
“Someone can seem physically ready but mentally... scared to death... so we make sure they get the right resources.”
A member of the National Athletic Trainer’s Association (NATA), she values ongoing learning through annual seminars.
“They hold annual seminars and webinars to talk about new things...so I’m still able to learn."
To celebrate her 30th anniversary, Houlihan-Davis is hosting a “30 for 30” fundraiser to support uniforms and student resources.
“It’s fun reaching out to old students and reconnecting.”
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