Jax State's Dr. Jennifer Burgett named Alabama College Athletic Trainer of the Year

by Brett Buckner

Jacksonville, AL (06/17/2026) — Dr. Jennifer Savage Burgett, Coordinator of Clinical Education and Associate Professor in Jacksonville State University's Master's in Athletic Training program, was named 2026 College/University Athletic Trainer of the Year by the Alabama Athletic Trainers' Association (ALATA).

"I was surprised and truly humbled," Dr. Burgett said. "There are so many outstanding athletic trainers across Alabama who devote countless hours to serving their students, athletes, patients, institutions, and communities. To be recognized by my peers in a profession that I care so deeply about is truly an honor."

The award was presented on May 30 during the annual ALATA Clinical Symposium and Members' Meeting in Trussville. It recognizes a collegiate athletic trainer who "demonstrates outstanding service to their institution, community, and the athletic training profession through ALATA involvement," according to the organization's website.

Dr. Burgett brings more than 10 years of academic and clinical experience in athletic training, working in a variety of settings, including high schools, colleges, orthopedics, and pediatrics. She is a member of the National Athletic Trainers' Association, Southeast Athletic Trainers' Association, and the Alabama Athletic Trainers' Association. She is also an instructor for the American Heart Association and is licensed in Alabama as a Certified Athletic Trainer.

Growing up, Dr. Burgett was an athlete herself, playing basketball and softball and running track and field. Her parents encouraged her to explore healthcare careers, and athletic training emerged as the perfect intersection of her interests. "My passion for sports made me fascinated by the ability to help athletes recover from injuries and improve their overall health and well-being," she said.

That early fascination grew into a career spanning more than a decade. As her career evolved, so did her interests. "As I progressed in my career, I discovered a passion for teaching and mentoring students," she said. "Watching students develop confidence, critical thinking skills, and compassion as healthcare providers is one of the most rewarding aspects of my job."

Within the athletic training program, Dr. Burgett is known for her high expectations, mentorship, and ability to connect classroom learning with real-world patient care.

"Dr. Burgett is an outstanding educator who brings both passion and intentionality to preparing future athletic trainers," said Dr. Gina Mabrey, Department Head and Professor of Kinesiology. "She ensures that our students are not only technically prepared, but also confident, professional, and service-minded. "She genuinely invests in her students, taking the time to mentor them individually and guide them toward meaningful involvement in the profession."

The work of athletic trainers is often misunderstood or underestimated. "Athletic trainers are often one of the most visible healthcare professionals in sports, yet many people don't fully understand the totality of our role," Dr. Burgett said. "We are educated and skilled healthcare providers who specialize in injury prevention, emergency care, clinical diagnosis and assessment, therapeutic intervention, and administration."

Athletic trainers serve as first responders, decision-makers, and patient advocates. Their work extends beyond game day into clinics, hospitals, industrial settings, the military, and the performing arts. "I want people to know that athletic trainers are healthcare professionals who make decisions every day that directly impact patient outcomes, safety, and quality of life," she said.

Dr. Mabrey said Burgett's recognition comes as no surprise. "This recognition," she said, "is a direct reflection of Dr. Burgett's consistent dedication to our students, our program, and the athletic training profession."

For Burgett, teaching extends beyond technical skills. It's about shaping compassionate, thoughtful healthcare providers. "One lesson I emphasize is that technical skills may get you in the door, but relationships, professionalism, and a commitment to lifelong learning will sustain your career," she said. "If students lead with compassion, integrity, and a genuine desire to serve others, they will make a meaningful impact wherever their careers take them."

Mabrey said the honor also reflects the strength of Jax State's Kinesiology Department and Athletic Training program. "Having Dr. Burgett recognized at this level speaks volumes about the quality and culture of our Kinesiology Department," Mabrey said. "Her recognition reinforces the strength of our Athletic Training program and highlights the kind of mentorship and educational experience our students receive."

Burgett sees the award as a shared achievement. "Receiving this award is especially meaningful because it represents the collective efforts of so many people who have influenced my journey," she said. "My greatest professional accomplishment is not an award or title. It's seeing students graduate, earn their credentials, and go on to positively impact the lives of their own patients and communities."

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