May 1, 2008

Mike Hadden, program director of athletic training and exercise science at Simpson College, has been selected as the Educator of the Year by the Iowa Athletic Training Society (IATS).

"It's an incredible honor to be recognized for doing something you love to do,” Hadden said. “Teaching is made easier when you have good students, and I'm fortunate to have that here at Simpson. To see students perform the skills and tasks that they were taught, graduate and become successful is extremely rewarding."

The award is given to a member of IATS who demonstrates outstanding abilities in educating student athletic trainers, athletes, the community, health care professionals or peers in athletic training.

Hadden was nominated for the award by former student and 2001 Simpson College graduate Neil Nelsen, who now works as an athletic trainer in West Des Moines. Nelsen nominated him for several reasons. Hadden was his mentor while he was at the college, and Nelsen said Hadden has had a positive influence on his students, student-athletes at the college and community members.

Hadden will receive his award at a state meeting May 31.