FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NBATA Foundation Announces 2025 Scholarship Award Recipients, Honoring Future Champions of Healthcare
April 2025 – The National Basketball Athletic Trainers Association (NBATA) Foundation proudly announces the 2025 recipients of its annual scholarship awards, honoring 16 outstanding athletic training students from across the United States. This year’s recipients represent a range of academic levels and institutions, all demonstrating exceptional commitment to advancing the field of sports medicine and healthcare.
Among the recipients, eight students have been awarded the Richard E. Vandervoort Memorial Scholarship, named in honor of the late NBATA pioneer and former Head Athletic Trainer of the Chicago Bulls. The Foundation also continues to expand its impact through dedicated scholarships that reflect the NBATA’s commitment to equity, excellence, and leadership in the athletic training profession.
This year’s specialized scholarship recipients include:
Richard E. Vandervoort Memorial Scholarship for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Richard E. Vandervoort Memorial Scholarship for Female Athletic Training Students
Gary Vitti Scholarship, honoring the long-time Los Angeles Lakers Head Athletic Trainer and champion of education
NBA Commissioner David Stern Memorial Scholarship, celebrating the legacy of Commissioner Stern’s support of player health and safety
NBATA Joe O'Toole Scholarship, named for the former Atlanta Hawks Head Athletic Trainer and advocate for the next generation
NBATA David Craig Scholarship, honoring the long-serving Indiana Pacers Head Athletic Trainer and leader in the profession
The Keith Jones NBATA Scholarship for Black Athletic Training Students, supporting greater diversity and representation in the field
The Jeff Snedecker Memorial Scholarship, named in memory of the respected NBATA member and mentor
“These scholarships represent our mission to uplift the next generation of athletic trainers who are committed to improving patient care and advancing the field of athletic training,” said NBATA Foundation President, Dr. Quinton Sawyer. “Each of these students embodies the NBATA’s standard of excellence, compassion, and dedication.”
The NBATA Foundation remains committed to supporting aspiring professionals through continued education, mentorship, and scholarship. As the athletic training profession continues to evolve, the Foundation is proud to play a part in shaping its future.
For more information about the NBATA Foundation and its commitment to health, wellness, and community support, please visit https://www.nbatafoundation.com/
About the NBATA Foundation
The NBATA Foundation is the charitable arm of the National Basketball Athletic Trainers Association, dedicated to promoting health and wellness through advocacy, education, and philanthropic efforts. Through strategic partnerships and charitable giving, the NBATA Foundation supports initiatives that benefit communities and enrich lives, underscoring the importance of athletic health in all facets of life.
