New Directors Named to BOC Board
The Board of Certification (BOC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Kelsey Rynkiewicz, PhD, LAT, ATC, NREMT, as a new Athletic Trainer (AT) director, and Sujan Gogu, DO, FAAFP as the new physician director to the BOC Board of Directors.
Dr. Rynkiewicz is the director of athletic healthcare and assistant professor of athletic training at Springfield College in Springfield, Mass. Rynkiewicz serves in a split capacity with 75% of her responsibilities involving direct patient care through clinical practice and the other 25% being dedicated to teaching. She is involved with all aspects of the provision of athletic health care services and serves as a preceptor for Master of Science in Athletic Training students. Rynkiewicz has served on the Eastern Athletic Trainers’ Association Public Relations Committee and has served in several NATA volunteer roles. Current positions include NATA District 1 Connection and Engagement Committee member, as well as NATA District 1 public relations committee chair and social media coordinator.
“I am incredibly excited, enthusiastic and eager for the opportunity to serve as an AT director on the BOC board,” said Dr. Rynkiewicz. “I am passionate about the athletic training profession and wholeheartedly believe our positive actions, behaviors and contributions are what help to progress the profession forward and ensure its continued growth and success. I am looking forward to bringing my passion and energy to the BOC board to advocate for ATs and protect the ATC® credential. The mission and values of the BOC truly align with my personal and professional values as a health care provider. I strive to be fair and equitable in the provision of health care services, I believe service is a focal point of the AT role by serving our patients and serving our profession, and I thrive off of collaboration with my colleagues, patients, and others in the workplace. Above all, I strive to exhibit integrity in everything I do as a person and AT as I believe integrity is the foundation to build trust and accomplish our shared goals. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve in this capacity and continue to uphold the values of the BOC.”
“Dr. Rynkiewicz brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advancing the athletic training profession,” said Anne Minton, CEO of the BOC. “Her dual role as both an educator and practitioner uniquely positions her to bridge the gap between theory and practice. I am confident that her passion for service and integrity will help elevate our mission to ensure excellence in athletic training. Kelsey’s dedication to collaboration will foster stronger relationships within our community, ultimately benefiting ATs and stakeholders across the board.”
Dr. Sujan Gogu, triple board-certified in family, sports, and pain medicine, dedicates himself to the Rio Grande Valley community. As core faculty at the DHR Family Medicine program and faculty at three medical schools, he mentors residents and students while advocating for health care reform through the Texas Medical Board and Texas Medical Association. Dr. Gogu also champions improved health outcomes through Healthcare for Action via political means.
Beyond his medical commitments, Dr. Gogu is a respected commentator, speaker and writer, contributing his insights across various platforms. He also serves as a physician for USA Badminton and USA Boxing, expanding his sports medicine network through Team USA while advancing his career at DHR Health. In addition, Dr. Gogu plays a role as the team physician for the NBA G-League’s Rio Grande Valley Vipers.
“As a physician director on the BOC board, I bring a multifaceted perspective from my extensive experience in family medicine, sports medicine and pain medicine,” said Dr. Gogu. “My work as a physician for Olympic sports and professional athletes, such as those in the NBA G League, has provided me with unique insights into the complexities of athlete care. I’ve also been deeply involved in mentoring and educating health care professionals, which aligns well with the BOC’s mission of maintaining high standards for ATs. Additionally, I’ve had the privilege of working with ATs in underserved communities, where I’ve seen firsthand the importance of accessible and high-quality care. This experience allows me to advocate for greater collaboration between physicians and ATs, ensuring that athletes—no matter where they are—receive the best care possible. My commitment to excellence and ethics will help uphold the rigorous standards that the BOC has established. My vision for the BOC is to continue leading the charge in credentialing excellence, ensuring that ATs are not only well-qualified but also adaptive to the evolving demands of sports and health care. I see the BOC setting the global benchmark for certification, expanding its influence by incorporating the latest scientific advancements and best practices in sports medicine.”
“Dr. Gogu’s extensive background in family and sports medicine, combined with his advocacy for health care reform, makes him an invaluable addition to our board,” said Minton. “His hands-on experience with elite athletes provides a unique perspective that will enhance our commitment to high-quality patient care. I look forward to his insights on fostering collaboration between Athletic Trainers and physicians, ensuring that all patients receive the comprehensive support they need.”
Dr. Rynkiewicz and Dr. Gogu were appointed by the BOC Board of Directors following a nomination process guided by the Nominating Committee.
“The BOC board extends its thanks to its Nominating Committee members for their dedication, and hard work, and also to the many qualified and talented applicants who participated in this important process,” said Minton.
