CU-Lock Haven athletic training student receives Kent Scriber Scholarship

Ariana Newlen, a graduate student in the Master of Athletic Training program at Commonwealth University-Lock Haven, has been awarded with the District Two Kent Scriber Scholarship from the Eastern Athletic Trainers' Association (EATA).

The scholarship recognizes students from EATA member institutions who have excelled in entry-level athletic training programs. Each year, several $3,000 scholarships are awarded to students who have demonstrated distinction in their university athletic training programs.

"I am truly grateful to receive this award," Newlen, of Mill Hall, said. "I believe the award reflects the mentorship, guidance and encouragement I have received throughout my education at CU-Lock Haven."

Newlen was nominated by the CU athletic training faculty to apply for the scholarship. The application process required students to submit a resume, documentation of leadership, volunteer experiences, professional development activities, extracurricular involvement and an essay outlining their plans after graduation.

"I have been very fortunate to learn from preceptors and professors who challenge me to grow, advocate for the advancement of the profession and model what it means to provide patient-centered care," Newlan said.

She also received letters of recommendation from program director Jody Russell, preceptor Rachel Thomas and professor Eric Lippincott.

"This is a very competitive and prestigious award," Russell said. "Ari has gone above and beyond in the classroom and in her clinical placements. To see her recognized for her academic successes and dedication to the profession is a testimony to the person Ari is. The athletic training faculty are extremely proud of her and her contributions to our program, the university and the profession."

"What I value most about our program is the strong sense of family and support within it," Newlen said. "The faculty provide resources and connections to a variety of clinical settings that allow us to explore different areas of the profession."

Newlen is currently completing her clinical immersion in outpatient orthopedics with St. Luke's University Health Network and WellSpan Health, working alongside athletic trainers in a physician practice setting. The experience has allowed her to work with patients of all ages and activity levels while strengthening her understanding of patient-centered care.

Following graduation in May, Newlen plans to pursue a career in an orthopedic setting and eventually complete a CAATE-accredited (Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education) orthopedic residency program.