Faculty Excellence Award
Suzette Nynas, Ed.D., LAT, ATC
Professor, Associate Department Chair and Program Director, Athletic Training, CHPS
When Dr. Suzette Nynas’ students tell someone “we’ve got your back,” they mean it in a literal sense. Same goes for their head. And their neck. And their wrists, knees, elbows, and ankles.
That’s because when it comes to holistic healthcare that covers everything from preventative care to education and nutrition, athletic training is unique. And Dr. Nynas understands what it means more than most.
Aside from her experience as head athletic trainer at Rocky Mountain College before joining MSU Billings in 2007, she now serves as director of the Athletic Training master's program. She is responsible for all accreditation-related duties, including ensuring standards are met and that required reports are complete and submitted. She regularly teaches overload so that students have necessary course offerings. And, until recently, she was also the department chair for Health and Human Performance.
For Dr. Nynas, the work means a better student experience.
“The best part of my job is the students,” she said. “They have a real eagerness to learn.”
Dr. Nynas holds the most important faculty leadership role on campus; chair of the Academic Senate. In that role, Dr. Nynas works closely with MSUB leadership, and manages all university curriculum-related matters. She oversees administrator evaluations, ensures that course and program proposals are robust and viable, serves on Cabinet, Jacket Leadership Team, and the Budget Advisory Council.
“She has a calm demeanor, takes concerns seriously, and always follows through,” her award nominator wrote. “She expertly leads the Academic Senate, considers all perspectives, and makes decisions thoughtfully…. MSUB benefits immensely from having her on faculty, and in a leadership role.”