NATM Spotlight: Kelsey Rynkiewicz Honored with Massachusetts Rising Leader Award

When Kelsey Rynkiewicz received a phone call from the President of the Athletic Trainers of Massachusetts offering congratulations, she was stunned. She hadn’t even known she had been nominated for the organization’s Rising Leader Award.

The recognition celebrates athletic trainers early in their careers who have made outstanding contributions to their patients, communities, and the profession—criteria that Rynkiewicz clearly meets through her work at Springfield College.

“It’s very humbling,” Rynkiewicz said. “I don’t think anyone involved in athletic training does it for the recognition, I truthfully enjoy being involved, and enjoy giving back to the profession, but it’s very cool to be recognized for it.”

Rynkiewicz’s journey began at King’s College in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, where she first realized she could pursue a dual career in both clinical athletic training and education. The example set by her professors shaped her vision for the future.

“My professors there were super involved in the profession,” Rynkiewicz said. “They also were teaching, and then athletic trainers in the afternoon. For me that really shaped me as a person and as an athletic trainer in what I wanted to do.”

That path led her to the University of Connecticut, where she pursued her PhD while serving as a graduate assistant with the Eastern Connecticut State University baseball team. During her time there, the program captured the 2022 Division III World Series title, and the relationships she formed helped sustain her through the challenges of graduate school.

“Having those relationships with students is why I love what I do,” Rynkiewicz said.

Today, Rynkiewicz lives out her goal at Springfield College, serving in a dual role as an Athletic Trainer and Assistant Professor of Athletic Training.

“It’s a profession that will continue to give back to you,” she said. “If you enjoy helping people and making lasting connections, I think it’s definitely a fun journey.”

Even with the new award, Rynkiewicz remains focused on what matters most—supporting students, building relationships, and giving back to the profession she loves. Read the full story here!