SHERIDAN, WYOMING – May 1, 2025 – Henry Schein Medical, the U.S. medical business of Henry Schein, Inc. (Nasdaq: HSIC), has named Ian Jeffer, MS, ATC, LAT, Head Athletic Trainer at Desert Ridge High School in Mesa, Arizona, as the winner of its fifth annual Athletics and Schools Rising Star Award. The announcement recognizes Jeffer's exceptional contributions to student-athlete care, his leadership in developing future athletic trainers, and his broader impact on the Gilbert Public Schools District.
Spotlighting Emerging Leadership in Athletic Training
Created to honor athletic trainers with fewer than five years of experience, the Rising Star Award is designed to showcase professionals on a strong upward career trajectory. The award reflects Henry Schein Medical’s ongoing commitment to fostering talent that enhances community health outcomes and raises the bar in sports medicine education and practice.
Eric Kearns, National Sales Director of Henry Schein Medical’s Athletics and Schools business, emphasized the award's industry relevance:
“Congratulations to Ian Jeffer and each Rising Star finalist for the positive impact they are making, both in their communities and the athletic training profession. Athletic trainers play a vital role in not only keeping athletes in the game, but also in supporting the health of communities.”
Recognizing Excellence in Action
Jeffer was recognized for going above and beyond his role. In addition to providing high-quality care to Desert Ridge High School athletes, he leads a student sports medicine club, assists students with college applications, and regularly volunteers for school events. His approach merges education, mentorship, and healthcare, fostering a deeper appreciation for the profession among students and peers alike.
“I feel blessed to have this opportunity and look forward to using this platform to continue advocating for my athletes, educating my students, and contributing to the growth of the athletic training profession,” said Jeffer. “I want to extend my sincere thanks to Henry Schein and the sports medicine community for selecting me as the recipient of the 2025 Rising Star Award. I am truly humbled and grateful to be chosen from among so many incredible candidates.”
Celebrating Finalists Driving Community and Clinical Impact
Two additional finalists were recognized for their substantial efforts:
- Marissa Lucas, DAT, LAT, ATC – Athletic Trainer, WellStar Health System and Cross Creek High School (Augusta, GA)
- Develops hands-on internship opportunities with local universities.
- Champions mental health alongside physical care.
- Leads volunteer and community health initiatives.
- Angel Picart, LAT, ATC – Athletic Trainer, American Heritage Schools (Broward County, FL)
- Credited with two cardiac arrest saves.
- Provides gear to underserved athletes.
- Recognized for her engaging, compassionate teaching style.
The finalists were selected by a Recognition Committee comprising athletic trainers and experts from diverse practice environments. Public voting determined the final winner.
Strengthening the Athletic Training Pipeline
As part of his award, Jeffer will receive a handheld muscle stimulator and a Medi Kit™ MULE roller bag stocked with athletic training supplies—tools that support frontline care and reinforce Henry Schein’s role in empowering next-generation clinicians.
Past award recipients include professionals from high schools and professional sports teams, such as the Buffalo Beauts and Coconut Creek High School, showcasing the award’s wide reach across competitive levels and regions.
Strategic Value for B2B Health Markets
This annual recognition program is more than a celebration—it is a strategic initiative aligned with Henry Schein’s broader mission to elevate health care professionals and improve clinical outcomes through targeted support and innovation. By investing in the future of athletic training, Henry Schein strengthens its positioning in the growing B2B sports medicine segment, helping partners meet evolving care delivery expectations.
Learn more about the Rising Star Award and Henry Schein Medical’s Athletics and Schools business at https://www.henryschein.com.
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