A Commitment to Excellence: A Vision for the Future
More than 25 years ago, Robert Fulghum's All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten1 shook the nation. A New York Times best seller, this book sold over 7 million copies. This plainly written yet rich book enlightened many with credos about making the world a better place by appreciating the little things. As the new editor of the Athletic Training Education Journal, I would like to take this opportunity to share with you the little things I have learned that make this journal an exemplary resource.
I've learned that achieving excellence is not done in isolation. This journal has an amazing publishing company, editorial staff, editorial board, advisory panel, and reviewer pool. They provide rigorous and objective reviews and substantive feedback throughout the review process to facilitate the development of scholarly works into publishable manuscripts. The newly integrated editorial team with the Journal of Athletic Training directs manuscripts through the process to the most appropriate venue. They provide direction for growth and development. As a team, we are committed to collaborating with our expert personnel resources to ensure a high-quality publication.
I've learned that problems are often opportunities in disguise. This journal has faced many challenges since its inception. With strong leadership, a dedicated team, and strong vision, these challenges were embraced as opportunities for growth. As we continue, I am committed to developing additional databases to expand the visibility, special-topic issues to address contemporary concerns, and a greater contributor base to expand our scope.
I've learned through human interaction that listening is an essential skill. I have met many of the wonderful people who are advancing athletic training education through their research. I have had the opportunity to sit on committees that consider educational reform to better serve our profession. Each encounter has shaped my thinking and forced me to reach deeper. As we continue to listen to the constituents we serve, we need to be critical, reflective, and open minded.
I've learned never to underestimate how a determined group of people can affect future generations and our profession. Educators across the country are contributing research that shape how we view athletic training education. Through this research, our practice in the classroom and clinical settings is changing. Most importantly, it is strengthening our profession as our students and colleagues continue the cycle of professional advancement through inquiry.
Going far beyond the call of duty, doing more than others expect—this is what excellence is all about. And it comes from striving, maintaining the highest standards, looking after the smallest detail, and going the extra mile. Excellence means caring—it means making a special effort to do more.2
Our vision for this journal has remained steadfast. Through the hard work of a community of dedicated scholars, it has become an exemplary resource within athletic training and beyond. With the ATEJ anchored in excellence, we will continue to promote the profession and effect change.