BOC Volunteer Spotlight – Tony Pennuto, MS, LAT, ATC, BCS-O
The BOC would like to take this opportunity to thank all our BOC volunteers who serve as BOC board members, committee, task force and workgroup members and exam item writers. The BOC welcomes volunteers from a variety of backgrounds. Visit the BOC website, to learn more about volunteer opportunities with the BOC.
In this feature, we would like to spotlight Tony Pennuto, MS, LAT, ATC, BCS-O of District 5; As a member of the BOC Exam Development Committee, Pennuto volunteers as an item writer for the BOC Orthopedic Specialty exam. He worked to develop the initial exam for the launch last fall and continues to work with the item writing team going forward. In addition to his role with the BOC, Pennuto is currently chair of the Athletic Trainers in the Physician Practice Society (ATPPS) Education Committee. Pennuto has been a Certified Athletic Trainer since 2010 and is currently employed by the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics – Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation. His current role is program director for the Iowa Athletic Training Residency and supervisor for clinical Athletic Trainer (AT) staff in sports medicine and orthopedics.
Why is volunteering for the BOC important to you?
I have never met an AT that didn’t have something they thought could be improved with our profession. There are ZERO ways to influence the profession by only commiserating. To impact our profession and help our colleagues and peers, we must be involved. The opportunity to volunteer with the BOC was a no-brainer. Instead of sitting with frustrations, I can actively work to improve our profession.
What is the best or most rewarding part about volunteering with the BOC?
The opportunity to learn from peers around the country is easily the most rewarding part. The ability to grow your professional network only serves to improve your understanding of the challenges others face. I have been incredibly fortunate to brainstorm new ideas with others, develop projects through collaboration and give back to our profession.
How did you first come to know about a BOC volunteer opportunity?
I received an email invitation from a colleague. I filled out the information and here we are! It is beyond easy to be involved. It just takes a commitment to follow through on the tasks related to your service.
What advice would you give to an AT looking to get involved as a BOC volunteer?
Do it! Don’t think that you need to be THE expert in any one area of our profession. I was initially intimidated by volunteering because I thought I didn’t have anything of substance to offer. Who am I? What can I bring to the BOC? Instead, understand that your knowledge base is unique and your ability to draw on that experience is what the BOC needs. The BOC cannot represent views or attitudes they don’t know exist.
How has your experience volunteering at the BOC influenced you?
I am so very grateful for the relationships I have developed in my time volunteering at the BOC. I highly encourage my staff and residents to volunteer their time on a committee or organization that directly impacts our profession.
