Nashville, Tenn. --- Associate head athletic trainer Patrice Elder was selected to attend the 2012 NCAA/NACWAA Institute for Administrative Advancement.

The National Association of Collegiate Women Athletics Administrators (NACWAA) is the premier advocacy organization that empowers, develops, assists, celebrates, affirms, involves and honors women working in all fields of intercollegiate athletics and takes a pro-active role in advancing women into positions of influence.

"I'm really excited and proud of Patrice being selected to attend the NACWAA conference," said Head Athletic Trainer Monroe Abram. "I see this as a growth opportunity to expand her horizons within the athletics profession. Most people don't realize the amount of administrative work that goes into athletics or the amount we athletic trainers do daily. Patrice has gained knowledge and experience in her years here. This program will enable her to have continued success in the future."

In 1979, in the midst of gender-equity conflicts in intercollegiate athletics, a group of female administrators formed the Council of Collegiate Women Athletic Administrators (CCWAA), an organization with the goal of enhancing opportunities for women in athletics.

Since its creation, the main objective of the organization has not changed, but the roles and responsibilities have increased along with the increased exposure of women's athletics. In 1992, in order to better represent its diversified members, the CCWAA changed its name to the National Association of Collegiate Women Athletic Administrators (NACWAA). Expanding from its moderate beginnings, NACWAA now boasts nearly 1,700 members from universities, colleges, conferences and affiliated organizations across the country.

"I thank God for the blessings he has bestowed to me this year in my profession", said Elder.  "It is an honor to be chosen for this Institute and I am looking to gain great insight on leadership in athletics.  I thank God for the administration at TSU for being so supportive in my professional endeavors.  I look to bring back information to apply to my current position and the sports medicine department."

The NACWAA Institute will be held June 3-7 in Atlanta, Georgia. 

---tsutigers---