FUTURE ATHLETIC TRAINER HONORED: UA EXERCISE SCIENCE MAJOR AWARDED NATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - University of Arkansas exercise science major Vicky Echols has been selected by the National Athletic Trainers' Association Research and Education Foundation to receive a highly competitive, $2,000 scholarship, one of only 60 awarded nationally.

Echols was nominated by Eric Linson, assistant trainer in the men's athletics department, with whom she has worked as a student-trainer since 1999. In his letter of nomination, Linson noted that Echols has known since the ninth grade that she wants to be an athletic trainer, beginning then as an assistant to the high school athletic trainer.

Citing Echols' maturity, passion and commitment, Linson wrote, "Ms Echols will continue to increase the quality of people in the athletic training profession."

Jeffrey Bonacci, clinical assistant professor in the College of Education and Health Professions, worked with Echols and two other students to prepare a poster presentation for the Arkansas Athletic Trainers' Association state meeting, and praised her leadership abilities, facility in writing and critical thinking skills.

"She is one of the top students I've had in my teaching career," Bonacci said.

Echols, a junior, is a Chancellor's Scholarship recipient and graduated with honors from Southside High School in Fort Smith.

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Jeffrey Bonacci, clinical assistant professor and program director, athletic training education, College of Education and Health Professions, 479-575-4112, bonacci@uark.edu

Barbara Jaquish, communications director, College of Education and Health Professions, 479-575-3138, jaquish@uark.edu