LaTonja Lee is one of four recipients of the GSNC 2024 Impact Award.
LaTonja Lee graduated from the University at Albany in 2006 with a degree in Human Biology with a concentration in Anthropology and obtained a master’s degree in athletic trainer, Sports Medicine from Long Island University in 2010.
LaTonja established her career start at Wantagh High School where she served as head athletic trainer from 2011-2013. She moved on to work at Purchase College from 2013-2018 where she was responsible for over 250 student-athletes. LaTonja then transitioned to work at Molloy College from 2018-2021. After her stunt at Molloy, she moved on to working at Fordham University where she worked with Men’s basketball and Men’s Golf. In 2023 LaTonja worked at St. Francis College in Brooklyn primarily with Men’s and Women’s indoor and outdoor track, and recently accepted a position at Prehab as an Athletic Trainer.
LaTonja, a dedicated member of the New York State Athletic Trainers Association Diversity & Inclusion committee since 2015, has passionately advocated for the Athletic Training profession throughout her career, which spans over a decade. Assuming the role of Committee Chair in January 2019, she emphasized diversity and inclusion, believing in the importance of expanding access to students across New York State.
During her tenure as committee chair, LaTonja collaborated with the Girl Scouts of Nassau County to co-host a fitness party, engaging over 40 girls in a Women in Athletic Training Workshop. In March 2020, she initiated impactful video compilations for National Athletic Trainers Month, highlighting cultural competency and ethnic representation.
Her advocacy extended to creating an Athletic Training brochure for secondary schools, providing accurate statistics and enhancing visibility at career fairs and in 2022, she partnered with the USA Lacrosse Sankofa Lacrosse Foundation, organizing a clinic for over 160 underserved youth in Long Island communities.
In 2023, LaTonja led an event in Indianapolis during the 74th National Athletic Trainers Convention, collaborating with the Girl Scouts of Indianapolis Sports Week to introduce girls aged 7 to 16 to various aspects of athletic training.
Focused on education, advocacy, and collaboration, LaTonja remains committed to promoting the athletic training profession through ongoing initiatives and partnerships.