New AT Director Named to BOC Board

The Board of Certification (BOC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Brian Hortz, PhD, ATC, SFDN, as an Athletic Trainer (AT) director to the BOC Board of Directors. Hortz will take office in 2028, following a year of mentorship and learning as an AT director appointee.

Hortz brings more than 30 years of experience in clinical practice, academia, regulation, education and entrepreneurship. He currently serves as Director of Research and Education at Structure and Function Education and is the proprietor of Brian Hortz Consulting, where he leads continuing education strategy, course development, research integration and educational programming.

Previously, Hortz served as Associate Athletic Director and Director of Sports Medicine at Denison University, leading athletic training services, strategic planning, staffing and budget initiatives across 24 sports and approximately 700 student-athletes. He has also held leadership positions with national test development committees, BOC working groups and state regulatory organizations, including elected leadership on the Ohio Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Athletic Trainers Board.

Hortz maintains a connection to clinical practice through his cash-based practice, providing recovery and performance services to professional and collegiate athletes. His professional work has included a strong focus on competency, patient safety, scope of practice and translating evidence into practice and policy.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the BOC and contribute to the continued advancement of the athletic training profession,” said Hortz. “My career across clinical practice, education, regulation and leadership has reinforced the importance of evidence-based decision-making, strong professional standards and a commitment to patient safety. I look forward to bringing that perspective to the BOC board and working collaboratively to strengthen certification and support the evolving needs of ATs and the patients they serve.”

Hortz was appointed by the BOC Board of Directors following a nomination process guided by the Nominating Committee.

“Brian brings a valuable combination of clinical, educational, regulatory and governance experience to the BOC board,” said Anne Minton, MBA, chief executive officer of the BOC. “His experience with assessment, professional standards and health care regulation will provide important perspective as we continue to evolve certification and support the profession. We are pleased to welcome Brian to the board and look forward to the thoughtful and collaborative leadership he will bring.”