Session Title: Interprofessional Roles and Transferable Skills

Session Title: Bringing Authenticity Across Industries: Lessons on how transferable skills apply throughout your personal and professional life.

Session Description: Candi Waller brings nearly 20 years of experience across the consulting, sports, and civic industries. In this talk, she will discuss how leveraging transferable skills can deepen expertise and effectively position yourself as being viewed as an expert in your field. 

Learning Outcomes:

1. Identify how to be more confident about your life's experiences and how they align with what's on your professional resume.
2. Identify how to shift your perspective on what you are good at and the gifts they have to share with the world.
3. Identify how to articulate your skills to be seen as leaders in your areas of expertise.

Instructional Level: Intermediate

ABOUT THE SPEAKER 

Head to Speech Emcee and Speaker, Candi Waller 

Disclosures: Financial disclosures include receiving an Honorarium for this presentation. Non-financial relationships to disclose include President of the CWall Foundation, Inc. 

Candi Waller also known as "CWall" is the President of Bowie Television (located in Bowie, Maryland), Founder and CEO of CWall® Sports & Entertainment, President of the CWall Foundation, Inc, and the Managing Publisher of the Sports Illustrated Fan Nation Inside the Wizards site. A native of Gorgeous Prince George's County, Maryland, Candi has been an authentic lover of all sports since her childhood. She was such a sports fan at an early age that she notes one of her favorite childhood shows as the legendary "George Michael Sports Machine". Candi holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Hampton University, Master of Arts in Human Resource Development from The George Washington University and a certificate in Sports Industry Essentials from Columbia University.

Prior to and during her work in the sports industry, Candi has established her identity as a results-driven, relationship building advocate and professional with extensive years of experience leading and implementing successful strategic change, communications, and stakeholder engagement programs across geographically dispersed organizations. She’s worked across Big Four and Government Trusted Advisor consulting firms such as IBM, Deloitte, and the MITRE Corporation.

She is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, Women in Sports & Events (WISE), the National Press Club (NPC), the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), the Prince George’s County Chamber of Commerce and is an ambassador for the National Museum of African American History and Culture. In terms of what she likes to do for fun, that’s just it…anything that is considered fun, she’s all for it! She’s very close to her parents, brother, and sister, and has a host of nieces, nephews, and godchildren.

Marcus Smith, II

Session Title: The Learning Curve

Session Description: Being an athlete dealing with concussions, and also wishing I knew how important the learning curve was with your overall brain and mental well being. Learning takes place on and off the field, and it's important that we are intentional about educating ourselves on the symptoms of the concussion, so we can be proactive instead of reactive.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Identify how the athlete experiences throughout their journey from High School to playing in the National Football League.
2. Identify the athlete's experiences with being educated on concussions and the effect of cognitive communication.
3. Identify how this information can help athletes process their own learning curve as pertains to their own brain and mental health.

Time ordered agenda

5 min Introduction 

40 minute keynote speech

15 min Question & Answer Session 

Instructional Level: Introductory

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Marcus Smith II

Disclosures: Relevant financial disclosures include receiving an honorarium for this presentation. Relevant non-financial disclosures include being a Head to Speech Board Member. 

Marcus Smith is a Columbus, Ga native who played college football at the University of Louisville. In college, he became an All-American and finished 2nd nation in sacks with 14.5. He ended his career with a bachelor's in communication and went on to be the 26th pick in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Marcus played three seasons for the Eagles, two seasons for the Seahawks, and two seasons for the Commanders. He is now a TV correspondent, life coach, mental health advocate, entrepreneur, and author. He has been featured on CNN, Players Tribune, NBC News, Access Hollywood, The Athletic, The Grio, and Amazon Sports Talk. Marcus's near death experience with anxiety and depression as a NFL athlete led him to establish The Circle of M Foundation, INC. after retiring from football. The Circle of M's mission is to end the negative stigma surrounding mental health and bring awareness to the feelings that cause anxiety and depression.

Session Title: Beyond the Field: Navigating the Journey of Return to Learning After Concussion in Sports and Education

Session Description: Navigating a personal experience through secondary and higher education while finding his own accommodations to get to his end goal. Personalizing a learning journey and finding what works best for him. Highlighting the specialists and techniques that are now available to him who can assist in making the journey easier from the perspective of an MBA graduate and semi-professional soccer player.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Identify the strengths of having resources available to once sustaining a concussion
2. Identify who to communicate with if they find themselves having difficulty in the classroom or in social settings
3. Identify the different career pathways to take that fit their personality and learning circumstances

Time Ordered Agenda

5 - Introduction

10 - Navigating a personal experience

15 - Personalizing a learning journey and finding what works best for him

15 - Specialists and Conclusion

Instructional Level:

Introductory

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Disclosures:
Relevant financial disclosure includes receiving a registration waiver for this presentation. Non-financial relationships to disclose include being a Head to Speech Ambassador.

Paul’s story unfolds on the soccer field, where his passion collided with the harsh reality of concussions. Each injury became a chapter in his narrative, not only testing his physical strength but also challenging his ability to return to the academic arena. As we delve into the nuances of "Return to Learning," his experiences offer insights into the unique considerations that individuals face as they navigate secondary and higher education after a concussion.

The pursuit of academic and athletic excellence became a delicate balancing act. Becoming a semi-professional soccer player for MSI and proudly representing MD United in the UPSL were moments of triumph, but they were also instances where he grappled with the interplay between my educational pursuits and the demands of a competitive sports career.

The recurring injuries over the past three years became poignant reminders of the need for specialized support when returning to the classroom after a concussion. Each setback brought forth not only physical challenges but also the necessity for a nuanced and individualized approach to learning. It became clear that a one-size-fits-all model was insufficient; the journey back to education required thoughtful consideration of each student's unique needs and circumstances.

Expulsion from college marked a crucial turning point, emphasizing the significance of creating an environment that fosters understanding and support for those returning to higher education post-concussion. His journey, from academic setback to earning an MBA in Healthcare Management, underscores the transformative power of adaptability and resilience within the educational landscape.

Session Title: Signs and Symptoms of Sports-Related Concussions: Discover the dos and don’ts of treatment for return to learning

Session Description: She discusses her personal experience with traumatic brain injury (TBI) as a collegiate athlete as well as the do's and don'ts of her treatment process. She discusses the signs and symptoms to identify head injuries in athletes. This session explores future precautions and education that can be taken by parents, coaches, and other sports administrators to prevent and treat athletes with TBIs going forward.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify signs and symptoms of TBI in athletes.
2. Identify how to apply provided strategies into the treatment process regarding TBI.
3. Identify the roles of speech-language pathologists in the treatment process of TBI.

Time Ordered-Agenda

30 mins:

10 mins introduction/personal experience

5 mins objective 1,

5 mins objective 2,

5 mins objective 3,

5 mins Q&A

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Logan Greger 

Disclosures:
Relevant financial disclosure includes receiving a registration waiver for this presentation. Non-financial relationships to disclose include being a Head to Speech Ambassador.

Logan Greger is a former collegiate athlete and speech-language pathology graduate clinician at Jacksonville University. Logan discusses her personal experience with traumatic brain injury (TBI) as a collegiate athlete as well as the do's and don'ts of her treatment process. She discusses the signs and symptoms to identify head injuries in athletes. This session explores future precautions and education that can be taken by parents, coaches, and other sports administrators to prevent and treat athletes with TBIs going forward.

Session Title: Re-learning How to Learn: The effects of auditory comprehension and processing time in the development of reading, decoding, speed and comprehension during the learning process

Learning Outcomes

1. Identify the difference between auditory comprehension and processing time related to learning process
2. Identify the difference between reading decoding, speed and comprehension during learning process
3. Identify the relationship between these 2 processes

Instructional Level: Introductory

Time Ordered-Agenda

5 min intro

5 min point 1

5 min point 2

5 min point 3

10 min Q&A

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Tina L. Allis

Disclosures: Relevant financial disclosures include receiving a registration waiver for this presentation. Relevant non-financial disclosures include being a Head to Speech Ambassador and member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association.

As a 40 year post sports concussion survivor and a speech language pathologist for the last 30 years, Tina has embraced the idea of learning how to learn over the years through her primary education, post secondary education and professional work. She currently works in a skilled nursing facility with an outpatient department in Virginia. She has treated many patients with varying degrees of concussions/TBI over the lifespan and in various settings such as inpatient, outpatient, and home health. She focuses on all aspects of cognition not just memory post-concussion along with auditory processing deficits, visual-spatial deficits, and higher level executive functions.

Tina became a Head to Speech Ambassador to not only help identify the SLP’s role in post-concussion care but to also share my own concussion/TBI story to raise awareness within the medical community and across all disciplines with using evidence-based therapeutic interventions. She also wanted to be involved with Head to Speech to “spread the word” about the importance of therapeutic interventions being provided in a timely manner after the initial injury. Needless to say, this population is the most rewarding to work with because of the tremendous positive impacts that it has on the person who has suffered this injury and their families.

LUNCH ACTIVATIONS 

Activation: Damar Hamlin: A Second Chance. An Analysis of Sports Media Trauma & Its Effect on Viewers

Activation Description: This session explores Damar Hamlin, safety for the Buffalo Bills, unexpected collapse on the field after completing a tackle well within the first quarter of the game well within the first quarter of the game on January 2, 2023 between the Buffalo Bills and Cincinnati Bengals. Our research investigates Hamlin's collapse on Monday Night Football, its mental effects on users of social media, previous sports injuries, and the health crisis experienced by American athletes in collegiate and professional sports. Visual and post-traumatic stress disorder theories were used to inform the investigation of the research question. Textual analysis is the selected metric analytic for this research. Visual media and post-traumatic stress disorder theory and textual analysis of Hamlin's collapse on ESPNs Monday Night Football provides a substantial framework to analyze individual responses on X (formerly known as Twitter) and their association to discuss trauma through diverse mediums of media, professional athletes, and viewers. 

Learning Objectives: 

1. Identify the effects of visual trauma in sports, such as sports-related concussions.  
2. Identify how to develop a greater comprehension of viewers' perception of health and wellness, such as sports-related concussions within sports and amongst athletes. 
3. Identify how to provide an intellectual framework and cultural model, which argues the athlete functions as the medium to understanding health risks, such as sports-related concussions and trauma occurring between the viewer/fan and sports culture.

Instructional Level: Introductory

Time Ordered-Agenda

6 min Intro

10 min point 1

10 min point 2

10 min point 3

ABOUT THE PRESENTERS 

Raul T. Candelaria

Disclosures: No relevant financial or non-financial relationships to disclose.

Raul T. Candelaria’s expertise focuses on communication, leadership, public policy, and

economic development for the purpose of translating government and business models into strategies to increase value and collective power. His 30 years of professional experience started as an activist and community organizer to expand civil rights and social justice for people of diverse cultures. He worked in the government and the private sector. The American Red Cross of New Mexico bestowed their Real Heroes Award upon Mr. Candelaria in 2015 for disarming an active shooter in the workplace. He dedicated his professional career to diversity, equity, and inclusion issues for economic self-determination and social change.

Mr. Candelaria currently studies at Howard University’s Department of Communication, Culture and Media Studies as a 3rd-year doctoral student. Mr. Candelaria’s research interest focuses on sports communication and intercultural communication in the media and cultural studies track.

He is a Just-Julian Graduate Research Assistant working on the power of video counter-storytelling and the Tyre Nichols videos. His dissertation focuses on Nike’s counter-storytelling of social justice messages and messages of culture and social change on its social media platforms. Mr. Candelaria earned a Master of Arts in Communication and Leadership Studies from Gonzaga University, and a Master’s in Public Policy from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government. Mr. Candelaria received a Woodrow Wilson Fellowship to attend Harvard University. He earned a BA in Communications from the University of New Mexico.

He is from Albuquerque, New Mexico, and former soccer player and coach.

Kalema E. Meggs

Disclosures: No relevant financial or non-financial relationships to disclose.
Kalema Elizabeth Meggs is a third-year doctoral student in the Department of Communication, Culture, and Media Studies at Howard University. Her research is in sports communication focusing on societal and cultural matters amongst African American/Black and Brown athletes, and how they are framed within traditional media channels and social media platforms. As a former competitive figure skater and current sports communication practitioner, Kalema is passionate in advocating for marginalized athletes through scholarship and collaborating with sport industry leaders on shifting stigmas and narratives placed upon African American/Black and Brown athletes in addition to fighting for equitable and equal opportunities for women in the sports industry and for female athletes. Kalema holds a Master of Arts in
Public Relations from the University of Miami, a Master of Science in Communications from Lynn University, and Bachelor of Arts in English from Barry University.

Bukky Babalola

Disclosures: No relevant financial or non-financial relationships to disclose.

Bukky Babalola is a third-year doctoral student in the department of Communication, Culture, and Media Studies, health communication track at Howard University. As a health communication scholar, her research focuses on issues of race and health disparities within Black communities, including healthcare access, maternal health, birth equity, and sexual reproductive health education. Ms. Babalola is also a public health communicator with experience supporting federal health agencies, medical systems, and local health departments with a range of public health initiatives. She holds a Master’s degree from Morgan State University in Journalism with a Public Health focus and a Bachelor’s degree from California Polytechnic University, San Luis Obispo in Broadcast Journalism.

Session Title: Making an "Impact" In The Concussion Assessment

Session Description: This interactive session focuses on the application of the International Classification and Functioning (ICF) Model to the concussion evaluation report. The concussion symptom overlap and its connection to functional skills are discussed. She guides the attendees through the process of critical thinking to create a functional and impactful "impact" statement. 

Learning Outcomes:

1. Describe the International Classification Functioning (ICF) model to concussion symptoms, function, activity limitations, and participation restrictions.

2. Analyze the symptom overlap and the impact of symptoms on functional performance in academic, vocational, and social settings.

3. Formulate a functional impact statement for the concussion evaluation report.

Instructional Level:

Intermediate

Time-ordered agenda

3min – Introduction & Overview of session 

12min – Concussion symptoms overlap and cognitive-communicative functions 

25 min – Case studies & Statement Practice 

15 min – Group report out and feedback

ABOUT THE PRESENTER

Alaina S. Davis, Ph.D., CCC-SLP/L, CBIST

Disclosures: Financial disclosures: I receive a salary from Overall Neuro Rehab and Howard University. I also received a registration waiver for this presentation. 

Non-financial disclosures: I am a board member of the Head to Speech nonprofit (2021-2023), chair of the Committee on Race, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion with the Academy of Neurologic Communication Disorders and Sciences.

Dr. Alaina Davis is an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Howard University where she also received her Ph.D. She received her master’s degree from Southern University and A&M College and her bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston. Dr. Davis is a licensed Medical Speech-Language Pathologist and a Certified Brain Injury Specialist Trainer with the Academy of Certified Brain Injury Specialists. She has expertise in neurologically based communication disorders with adolescents and adults and primarily focuses on traumatic brain injury and concussion. Dr. Davis directs the Cognitive-Communicative Skills Research & Clinical Lab in which the team examines cognitive-communicative deficits associated with sport-related concussion and culturally responsive assessment and treatment. She also provides support in return-to-learn/play/activity for student-athletes following concussion through her role on the HU Concussion Management Team. Dr. Davis’s work infuses the cognitive and communication styles of adolescents and adults from racially and ethnically diverse backgrounds. She is published in professional journals, has co-authored book chapters, and completed numerous presentations. She is also the owner of Overall Neuro Rehab in which she provides services to clients with brain injury and offers training sessions and webinars to professionals in the area of brain injury.

Poster Session Title: Concussion Reporting Among Black Athletes: Examining Healthcare Disparities and Psychosocial Factors 

Session Description: This poster discusses the intersection of health disparities, psychosocial factors associated with racism, and concussion reporting among Black athletes. They analyze concussion reporting practices among Black athletes and athletic stakeholders including speech-language pathologists, athletic trainers, and coaches. The psychosocial factors associated with healthcare disparities are also examined in relation to attitudes surrounding concussion reporting.

Learning Outcomes

1. Identify the impact of health disparities associated with concussion and concussion management
2. Describe the communicative and psychosocial barriers to concussion reporting practices for Black athletes
3. Analyze the role of the SLP and athletic stakeholders in supporting concussion reporting for Black athletes
4. Identify how to develop a strategic plan for addressing challenges in concussion reporting for Black athletes

Instructional Level: Introductory

Time-Ordered Agenda: 

5 mins Introduction

10 mins Objective 

5 mins Questions & Answers 

ABOUT THE PRESENTERS 

Autumn Boone, B.S. is a graduate student in the department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Howard University. She received her B.S from East Carolina University in 2022. Autumn is from Raleigh North Carolina and is passionate about health disparities that affect African Americans. She aspires to become a medical SLP. 

Disclosures: No relevant financial or non-financial relationships to disclose.

Jasmine D. Branch, B.S. is a graduate student in the department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Howard University. She received her B.S. from Stockton University. She enjoys learning about neuroscience as it applies to speech and language. She has completed research during undergraduate and is excited to continue during graduate school.

Disclosures: No relevant financial or non-financial relationships to disclose.

Donovan Hanson is a senior at Howard University, majoring in psychology with a minor in biology. Donovan has participated in The Cognitive-Communicative Skills Research Lab with Dr. Davis since 2021. He has a strong passion for Neuropsychology and is looking forward to obtaining a graduate degree.

Disclosures: No relevant financial or non-financial relationships to disclose.

Nastassia Horn, B.S. is a graduate student in the department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Howard University and received her B. S. from the University of Houston. Nastassia aspires to become a medical speech language pathologist and is passionate about neuroscience, the brain and its structures.

Disclosures: No relevant financial or non-financial relationships to disclose.

Amanda Melendez, B.S. is a graduate student in the department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Howard University. She received her B.S from the University of Central Florida. Amanda works in The Cognitive-Communicative Skills Research Lab with Dr. Davis. She is interested in sports related concussions and traumatic brain injuries.

Disclosures: No relevant financial or non-financial relationships to disclose.

Dr. Alaina Davis is an Associate Professor, brain injury specialist trainer, and director of the Center for Cognitive-Communicative Skills lab. Her research addresses return-to-activity after sport-related concussion, and culturally responsive assessment and treatment of cognitive-communication following brain injury. Her publications and presentations span national and international journals and conferences.

Disclosures: Financial disclosures: I receive a salary from Overall Neuro Rehab and Howard University. I also received a registration waiver for this presentation. Non-financial disclosures: I am a board member of the Head to Speech nonprofit (2021-2023), chair of the Committee on Race, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion with the Academy of Neurologic Communication Disorders and Sciences.

Session Title: Overhaul your student-athlete academic lifestyle after sports concussion 

Session Description: A moderated discussion on the best practices to overhaul a student-athlete's academic lifestyle after sports concussion. Discover real life scenarios of student-athletes beyond return-to-play protocols. Becoming an advocate for yourself is one of the best skills you can teach a student-athlete after sustaining a sports-related concussion. Student-athletes are better equipped once they take control of their own learning needs and understand the role of speech-language pathologists in sports concussion management. SLPs use tools, strategies and accommodations that can help them navigate their journey throughout recovery and lifetime. 

Learning Objectives

• Describe how to develop a better understanding of how concussions and academics interact with one another. 
• Describe how to create and contribute to the platform of the importance of developing an efficient concussion protocol. 
• Describe how concussions affect everyone differently and can vary in symptoms.

Instructional Level: Introductory

Time Ordered-Agenda

5 min intro

10 min point 1

10 min point 2

10 min point 3

10 min Q&A

ABOUT THE MODERATOR 

Dr. Tabia Pope 

Course Planner and Instructional Personnel 

Disclosures: Relevant financial disclosures include receiving a salary as a Clinical Instructor at the University of the District of Columbia. She financially supports Head to Speech, Incorporated and its causes through in-kind donations and speaking fees. She receives Head to Speech Intellectual Property Rights, honorariums and complementary course registration related to neurogenic language disorders, brain injury, sports concussion management, and brain health. 

Relevant non-financial disclosures include being a non-salaried Chairperson, President and CEO of Head to Speech Incorporated. She is also a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association SIGs 2 and 10, as well as the National Black Association for Speech-Language and Hearing.  

Dr. Tabia Pope serves as the Founding Chair, President & CEO of Head to Speech Incorporated, the leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to educational, scientific and charitable initiatives, which address the impact that post-concussion syndrome has on athletes' speech-language, hearing and cognitive-communication outcomes.

The organization has 14 dedicated Board of Directors, as well as consultants, which provide training to over 60 Ambassadors throughout the global community. Dr. Pope leads Interprofessional Task Force members within the organization's mastermind group. She empowers them to advise, research, educate, and speak on various topics that affect student-athletes, professional and former athletes, and their support systems.

Dr. Pope utilizes her background as a Health Communication Specialist to raise awareness, create content, disseminate toolkits and educational resources to key groups involved in neurogenic disorders, brain injury, and sports concussion management. She is a Clinical Instructor of Speech-Language Pathology at the University of the District of Columbia and Medical Speech-Language Pathologist, where she co-directs the UDC B.R.A.I.N. Lab with an emphasis in Black Men's Brain Health. She designs brain health coaching and Neurocognitive Training including cognitive-communication interventions that are integrated into athletes' sports drills, physical exercise, and daily activities.  

ABOUT THE PANELISTS 

Professor Emily Gibson

Disclosures: Relevant financial disclosure includes receiving a registration waiver for this presentation. No Non-financial relationships to disclose.

Professor Emily Gibson holds a B.A. degree in Hearing & Speech Sciences from the University of Maryland, College Park and a M.S. degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of the District of Columbia. Professor Gibson is a Clinical Instructor of Speech-Language Pathology at the University of the District of Columbia. She is also a certified brain injury specialist with a history of providing speech-language pathology services across the lifespan in acute, acute inpatient, subacute, home and outpatient medical settings. Areas of clinical expertise include management of adult neurological disorders of swallowing and communication, gender affirming voice and communication, voice disorders and management of laryngeal airway problems including PVFM and chronic cough. Special interests include evidence-based practice for management of neurological disorders, cognitive motor learning principles for management of voice and laryngeal airway disorders and dynamic assessment and functional treatment geared towards community reentry for individuals recovering from traumatic brain injury, stroke and post- concussion. She provides clinical supervision and instruction for graduate students treating both pediatric and adult clients. 

Dasnii Curtis

Assistant Director for Academic Excellence/Academic Advisor Football

Former Athlete

Disclosures: Relevant financial disclosure includes receiving a registration waiver for this presentation. No Non-financial relationships to disclose.

Curtis serves as Assistant Director for Academic Excellence at Texas Tech University, where her main charge is football. Curtis began her career in Athletic Academic Support at Campbell University with the football program. Most recently, Curtis was the Director of Academic Success at the University of Richmond, overseeing the academic support for football and men’s and women’s tennis. As a former basketball and cross country student-athlete, she completed her undergraduate degree at Fayetteville State University in 2013. She earned her masters degree in Sports and Performance Psychology from the University of the Rockies in 2015. Dasnii has committed her life to fulfilling her purpose of helping others through athletics.

Dasnii Curtis provides the perspective of academic advisors to collegiate athletes in order to discuss and shed light on the realities of how academics are affected. Hoping to acknowledge the importance of having a concussion protocol in place. 

Session Title: Interprofessional Concussion Management at East Tennessee State University

Session Description: This session describes the interprofessional concussion management program at East Tennessee State University (ETSU). Speaker describes the trajectory of concussion management requirements across time as well as within ETSU. She provides an overview of the protocol and interprofessional team at ETSU as well as discusses challenges, successes and future directions.

Learning Outcomes:

At the conclusion of this presentation attendees will be able to:

1. Describe updated recommendations for two of the 12 Rs of concussion recovery​
2. Describe the benefits of using multiple concussion tests as well as name and provide rationale for one of the tests​
3. Describe current best evidence regarding return to learn recommendations

Time ordered Agenda:

10 mins - Summary of recommendations from the 2022 Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sports 

25 mins - Overview of ETSU protocol (timing of baseline/post test, test battery and rational, post concussion workflow and interprofessional team, benefit of SLP collaboration)

5 mins - Challenges and successes

5 mins - Future directions

15 min - Q&A

Instructional Level: Intermediate

ABOUT THE SPEAKER 

Courtney Andrews, MA, CCC-SLP

Disclosures: Relevant financial disclosure includes receiving a registration waiver for this presentation. No Non-financial relationships to disclose.

Courtney Andrews is a Speech Language Pathologist and Assistant Clinical Professor at East Tennessee State University. She has been working in concussion management with university athletes since 2017. Her areas of interest include interprofessional education and practice, ALS and concussion management.

Session Title: The Journey from Traditional Athleticism to Holistic Wellness Advocacy

Session Description: Paetin Hawkins, an athlete turned holistic wellness advocate, invites the audience into a personal exploration of their transformative journey from traditional athleticism to embracing the profound benefits of mind-body connection through the use of breathwork, meditation, and yoga.

Through their personal narrative, Paetin shares the profound benefits of incorporating yoga and breathwork into daily life, showcasing how these practices have not only enhanced physical performance but also brought about mental clarity, emotional resilience, and a deeper connection to the self.

Paetin delves into their experiences, recounting the moments of self-discovery and growth that occurred on the mat and through mindful breathwork.

Audiences will gain valuable insights into the tangible benefits of these practices, learning how yoga and breathwork can serve as powerful tools for stress management, focus enhancement, and a more profound connection to one's body. They emphasize the inclusivity of these practices, making them accessible to individuals of all ages, and backgrounds, regardless of their athletic background.

This presentation encourages the audience to explore these practices as pathways to self-discovery, fostering a renewed sense of purpose and well-being.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Identify how the incorporation of yoga and breathwork can go beyond physical benefits, fostering mental clarity, emotional resilience, and a deeper connection to the self.
2. Identify practical strategies that will empower them to integrate yoga, breathwork, or other similar practices into their daily lives. Participants will leave with actionable steps to enhance overall well-being, regardless of their athletic background.
3. Identify the transformative potential of yoga, breathwork, and other similar modalities like meditation; fostering a renewed sense of purpose, balance, and fulfillment in their lives.

Time ordered agenda

10 Minutes breathwork practice and introduction

10 Minutes discussing the general impact of concussions in sports as well as personal anecdote

15 minutes the practice of yoga, breathwork, and meditation and its benefits on regulating the nervous system, its benefits in supporting healing, the lasting impact of developing a mind body connection post concussion

10 minutes Q&A

ABOUT THE WORKSHOP FACILITATOR

Paetin Hawkins RYT® 200

PAE Yoga + Wellness

Former Athlete

Registered Yoga Instructor and Pranayama Practitioner

Disclosures: No relevant financial or non-financial relationships to disclose.

Paetin Hawkins is a dedicated wellness advocate, born out of a diverse journey that spans athletics, academia, and holistic health practices. A proud graduate of Bowie State University, she holds a Bachelor's degree in Entrepreneurship and Small Business and is a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated.

Paetin's athletic journey instilled in her the resilience and determination that would later define her approach to life. However, her path took a turn after her high school athletic career, leading her to Bowie State where she immersed herself in her academics. It was during this time that Paetin's commitment to holistic health was sparked.

In 2016, Paetin rediscovered the transformative power of yoga, reigniting her connection to athleticism and setting her on a path of self-discovery in wellness. This revelation led her to delve into the profound connection between mind and body health, a theme that would become central to her work.

Post-college, Paetin found herself working at Sankofa Yoga + Wellness Center in Laurel, MD, under the guidance of a former employer and soror. This experience not only allowed her to contribute to the wellness community but also provided a platform to expand her skills through the Sankofa Yoga School. The insights gained during this period fueled her curiosity and deepened her understanding of mind and body wellness.

Since 2021, Paetin has dedicated herself to extensive training, earning her credentials as a 200-hour yoga teacher registered with Yoga Alliance and a skilled breathwork practitioner. Her expertise lies in holistic health and wellness, where she offers nurturing and restorative practices for both the mind and body.

Paetin's journey took an unexpected turn in the fall of 2021 and 2022 when she faced the challenges of sustaining additional concussions. Undeterred, she turned to her yoga practice and breathwork, leveraging mindfulness techniques to regain much of her previous capabilities. Through her personal experiences, Paetin continues to inspire others, emphasizing the transformative power of holistic health practices in overcoming life's obstacles. Today, she stands as a symbol of resilience, guiding others on their path to optimal well-being.

Session Title: Your Voice Matters: Vocal health and overall well-being for the Sports Community 

Session Description: This session features valuable insights into the integral relationship between vocal health and overall well-being. The speaker explores practical strategies to maintain a healthy voice, offering tips for professionals who rely on their voices daily. Through an exploration of vocal wellness, attendees learn how sustaining vocal health can have a profound impact on their total body wellness.

Learning Outcomes: 

1. Identify the interconnection between vocal health and overall well-being.
2. Identify the practical skills and knowledge required to implement effective strategies for maintaining vocal hygiene.
3. Identify anatomical structures and physiological mechanisms involved in phonation.

Instructional Level: Introductory

Time-Ordered Agenda 

1. Introduction (5 minutes)
2. Segment 1: Understanding the Voice (10 minutes)
3. Segment 2: Vocal Hygiene and Care (15 minutes)
4. Segment 3: Strategies for Professionals (10 minutes)
5. Segment 4: Vocal Fatigue Management (10 minutes)
6. Segment 5: Total Body Wellness Connection (5 minutes)
7. Q&A Session (5 minutes)
8. Summary and Key Takeaways (5 minutes)
9. Closing Remarks (5 minutes)

ABOUT THE WORKSHOP FACILITATOR

Myla Rae Duane

Disclosures: No relevant financial or non-financial relationships to disclose. 

Myla Rae Duane is a Speech-Language Pathologist with a background in professional singing. Her unique specializations inspired Myla’s dedication to providing evidence-based education on vocal hygiene and fatigue management for professional voice users. Her mission is to empower individuals with the knowledge they need to sustain and optimize their overall vocal health. Through presentations, resources, and interactive demonstrations, Myla strives to help professional voice users improve the strength, clarity, and expressive power of their voices as they navigate the demands of their careers.

Session Title: Mind in Motion: Brain Workout for Sports Performance & Stretching (All Sports)

Session Description: This brain workout provides an overview of dual tasking, neurocognitive training, and cognitive-communication exercises that can be used to improve attention, memory, hand eye coordination, reaction time, planning, organization, sequencing, and categorization skills.

Learning Objectives: 

• Identify the purpose of using a toss and turn exercise in order to improve attention, memory, hand eye coordination, reaction time, and repetitive movements.
• Identify the purpose of using an agility test exercise to improve cognitive shifting, alternating attention, planning, organization, and sequencing skills.
• Identify the purpose of using reaction sticks to improve categorization skills, executive functioning skills and reaction time based on the color caught.
• Identify the purpose of using a walk, bounce, and toss exercise to improve memory, reaction time, and coordination skills by remembering what each color means and demonstrating the task associated with the color as the color changes.
• Identify the purpose of using a card sorting exercise to improve working memory, matching, organization and sequencing skills.

Instructional Level: Introductory

Time ordered agenda
5 mins - toss and turn, agility test or reaction sticks
5 mins - card sorting
5 mins - walk, bounce, and toss

ABOUT THE WORKSHOP FACILITATORS

Dr. Tabia Pope, Head to Speech Brain Workout Instructor

Whitted Wellness Trainers

• Cassandra Pope
• Montiono "Tino" Whitted

Dr. Tabia Pope 

Course Planner and Instructional Personnel 

Disclosures: Relevant financial disclosures include receiving a salary as a Clinical Instructor at the University of the District of Columbia. She financially supports Head to Speech, Incorporated and its causes through in-kind donations and speaking fees. She receives Head to Speech Intellectual Property Rights, honorariums and complementary course registration related to neurogenic language disorders, brain injury, sports concussion management, and brain health. 

Relevant non-financial disclosures include being a non-salaried Chairperson, President and CEO of Head to Speech Incorporated. She is also a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association SIGs 2 and 10, as well as the National Black Association for Speech-Language and Hearing.  

Dr. Tabia Pope serves as the Founding Chair, President & CEO of Head to Speech Incorporated, the leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to educational, scientific and charitable initiatives, which address the impact that post-concussion syndrome has on athletes' speech-language, hearing and cognitive-communication outcomes.

The organization has 14 dedicated Board of Directors, as well as consultants, which provide training to over 60 Ambassadors throughout the global community. Dr. Pope leads Interprofessional Task Force members within the organization's mastermind group. She empowers them to advise, research, educate, and speak on various topics that affect student-athletes, professional and former athletes, and their support systems.

Dr. Pope utilizes her background as a Health Communication Specialist to raise awareness, create content, disseminate toolkits and educational resources to key groups involved in neurogenic disorders, brain injury, and sports concussion management. She is a Clinical Instructor of Speech-Language Pathology at the University of the District of Columbia and Medical Speech-Language Pathologist, where she co-directs the UDC B.R.A.I.N. Lab with an emphasis in Black Men's Brain Health. She designs brain health coaching and Neurocognitive Training including cognitive-communication interventions that are integrated into athletes' sports drills, physical exercise, and daily activities.  

Montiono Whitted

LMT/CPT/CEO
CEO, Whitted Wellness
Sports Therapist and Athletic Trainer with over 20 years in the field

Disclosures: Relevant financial disclosures include receiving a salary from Whitted Wellness. Relevant non-financial disclosures include being a Head to Speech Board of Director. He has partnered with Dr. Tabia Pope regarding opportunities to research and obtain data on athletes of all levels. His staff has participated and been a part of the 2023 Head to Speech Summit in creating more awareness in brain health.

Montiono Whitted is a highly experienced sports therapist and athletic trainer with over 20 years of professional expertise. Over the course of his career, he has worked with athletes at all levels, ranging from peewee to professional and even Olympic athletes. He has served as the head athletic trainer for St. Frances Academy, providing specialized care and therapy to the school's athletes. He is best known for his dedication to improving performance, preventing injuries, and facilitating optimal recovery for athletes. In addition to his role at St. Frances Academy, he is also the proud owner of Whitted Wellness Sports Therapy. Through his business, he offers a wide range of services tailored to the specific needs of athletes. His extensive experience enables them to provide personalized treatment plans and rehabilitation techniques that optimize athletic performance. He is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in sports therapy and frequently attends seminars and workshops to expand their knowledge. He believes himself to be highly respected in the field and has built a strong reputation for his exceptional skills and ability to effectively connect with athletes.

Cassandra Pope, MS, NSCA-CPT, PPSC

Exercise Science and Wellness: Fitness and performance
Former Athlete
Sports Performance Coach and Stretch Therapist

Disclosures: Relevant financial disclosures include receiving a salary from Whitted Wellness. Relevant non-financial disclosures include being a Head to Speech Ambassador.

Cassandra Pope is a performance coach and a stretch therapist with Whitted Wellness. She is a former AAU track athlete and collegiate cheerleader. With a master's in exercise science, Cassandra works along the mechanical level of human performance with high school, collegiate, and professional athletes. Being someone who suffered a concussion in her collegiate years while participating in athletics, both as an intern and athlete, she understands the importance of protocols in recovery, as well as injury risk reduction. Although injuries are unavoidable, there are ways to be proactive to minimize the risk of injury. Through her years in the health and fitness industry, Cassandra has demonstrated constant interest to learn and stay up to date with the best methods of training and sports recovery. Education is very valuable to her so the more athletes she can influence with proper training and awareness the greater the impact on the industry.

As CEO of her own training company and COO of Whitted Wellness, she is currently working on her first series of e-books to educate the public on human performance and injury prevention. Although the methods Whitted Wellness brings to the industry are relatively new it's been proven to be beneficial to youth athletes in building their performance. In 2019, Dwight Howard needed a second surgery to help remove excess scar tissue in his lower lumbar. This surgery was set to be a career-ending surgery. Whitted Wellness CEO & owner, Montiono Whitted, worked with him one on one throughout his recovery process. The following year, Dwight Howard was able to participate in the All-Star NBA Dunk Contest. He also won his first NBA championship the same year. This just goes to show the advancements in sports recovery is not only vital but necessary for back to play.

Session Title: Stop Overthinking Football

Session Description: This brain workout explores how to stop overthinking football. Go from overthinking about your current or next move to doing Brain Workouts that helps you to break through the noise in your head and the noise around you. Players are armed with verbal strategies where they express decisions when performing in order to become more decisive with planning routes, practicing drills and playing in the game. Increasing the use of mindfulness exercises that heighten the awareness of being present in the moment and integrating meaningful and intentional words, phrases and conversations into their daily routines. 

Learning Objectives: 

1. Identify strategies for how to break through the noise in your head and the noise around you by practicing being present in the moment. 
2. Identify strategies for how to have a calm mind and react to your environment through meaningful use of words, phrases, and conversations. 
3. Identify strategies to train your ear to the right words or phrases that help you respond with focus, intention and increased sports performance. 
4. Identify both verbal and motor responses to the words, phrases, and conversations that are meaningful to your coaches, trainers and teammates. 
5. Identify situations or topics that trigger overthinking and words, phrases and conversations that cause doubt or are too vague and require more clarification.  

Instructional Level: Introductory 

Time ordered agenda 

5 mins -  being present in the moment.  

5 mins - train your ear to hear meaningful use of words, phrases, and conversations 

5 mins - Identify situations or topics that trigger overthinking and words, phrases and conversations that cause doubt or are too vague and require more clarification. 

ABOUT THE MODERATOR 

Dr. Tabia Pope 

Course Planner and Instructional Personnel 

Disclosures: Relevant financial disclosures include receiving a salary as a Clinical Instructor at the University of the District of Columbia. She financially supports Head to Speech, Incorporated and its causes through in-kind donations and speaking fees. She receives Head to Speech Intellectual Property Rights, honorariums and complementary course registration related to neurogenic language disorders, brain injury, sports concussion management, and brain health. 

Relevant non-financial disclosures include being a non-salaried Chairperson, President and CEO of Head to Speech Incorporated. She is also a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association SIGs 2 and 10, as well as the National Black Association for Speech-Language and Hearing.  

Dr. Tabia Pope serves as the Founding Chair, President & CEO of Head to Speech Incorporated, the leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to educational, scientific and charitable initiatives, which address the impact that post-concussion syndrome has on athletes' speech-language, hearing and cognitive-communication outcomes.

The organization has 14 dedicated Board of Directors, as well as consultants, which provide training to over 60 Ambassadors throughout the global community. Dr. Pope leads Interprofessional Task Force members within the organization's mastermind group. She empowers them to advise, research, educate, and speak on various topics that affect student-athletes, professional and former athletes, and their support systems.

Dr. Pope utilizes her background as a Health Communication Specialist to raise awareness, create content, disseminate toolkits and educational resources to key groups involved in neurogenic disorders, brain injury, and sports concussion management. She is a Clinical Instructor of Speech-Language Pathology at the University of the District of Columbia and Medical Speech-Language Pathologist, where she co-directs the UDC B.R.A.I.N. Lab with an emphasis in Black Men's Brain Health. She designs brain health coaching and Neurocognitive Training including cognitive-communication interventions that are integrated into athletes' sports drills, physical exercise, and daily activities.  

ABOUT THE WORKSHOP FACILITATORS

Disclosures: No relevant financial or non-financial relationships to disclose. 

Coach Tank, Aaron Wallace

Owner of A&M Sports & Fitness 

Former D1 Athlete

Defensive Line/Outside linebacker Trainer (Dline/OLB)

Speed and Agility Explosiveness

Disclosures: No relevant financial or non-financial relationships to disclose. 

Coach Jet

A&M Sports & Fitness
Fitness Trainer

Pro, Collegiate, high school, and kids performance training

Former D1 Athlete

Session Title: Think Before Heading the Ball 

Session Description: This brain workout will incorporate brain health, cognitive-communication tasks and mindfulness into soccer specific workouts. 

Learning Objectives: 

1. Identify how to think before putting your body in a compromising position
2. Identify how to integrate cognitive-communication tasks into soccer specific drills.
3. Identify mindfulness strategies to reduce injury and having to head to speech  

Instructional Level: Introductory 

Time ordered agenda 

5 mins -  think before heading the ball 

5 mins - soccer drill using colored cones: orange and yellow 

5 mins - Identify mindfulness strategies for injury prevention 

ABOUT THE MODERATOR 

Dr. Tabia Pope 

Course Planner and Instructional Personnel 

Disclosures: Relevant financial disclosures include receiving a salary as a Clinical Instructor at the University of the District of Columbia. She financially supports Head to Speech, Incorporated and its causes through in-kind donations and speaking fees. She receives Head to Speech Intellectual Property Rights, honorariums and complementary course registration related to neurogenic language disorders, brain injury, sports concussion management, and brain health. 

Relevant non-financial disclosures include being a non-salaried Chairperson, President and CEO of Head to Speech Incorporated. She is also a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association SIGs 2 and 10, as well as the National Black Association for Speech-Language and Hearing.  

Dr. Tabia Pope serves as the Founding Chair, President & CEO of Head to Speech Incorporated, the leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to educational, scientific and charitable initiatives, which address the impact that post-concussion syndrome has on athletes' speech-language, hearing and cognitive-communication outcomes.

The organization has 14 dedicated Board of Directors, as well as consultants, which provide training to over 60 Ambassadors throughout the global community. Dr. Pope leads Interprofessional Task Force members within the organization's mastermind group. She empowers them to advise, research, educate, and speak on various topics that affect student-athletes, professional and former athletes, and their support systems.

Dr. Pope utilizes her background as a Health Communication Specialist to raise awareness, create content, disseminate toolkits and educational resources to key groups involved in neurogenic disorders, brain injury, and sports concussion management. She is a Clinical Instructor of Speech-Language Pathology at the University of the District of Columbia and Medical Speech-Language Pathologist, where she co-directs the UDC B.R.A.I.N. Lab with an emphasis in Black Men's Brain Health. She designs brain health coaching and Neurocognitive Training including cognitive-communication interventions that are integrated into athletes' sports drills, physical exercise, and daily activities.  

ABOUT THE WORKSHOP FACILITATOR

Disclosures: Relevant financial disclosures include receiving a registration waiver for this presentation. Relevant non-financial disclosures include being a Head to Speech Ambassador.

MSI Men's Semi-Pro Soccer Team

Coach Paul Lewis 

Soccer Player for Montgomery Soccer, Inc. (MSI)

The MSI Golden Knights

Executive Director Gus Delgado

Session Title: Women Leading in Sport Business: Innovative approaches to sports “pre-hab” and athlete support services

Session Description: Participants will gain insights into the diverse roles held by Black Women in sports business leadership positions. By listening to the panelists introduce themselves and describe the sports businesses they lead, attendees will develop a better understanding of the range of leadership positions and organizations within the sports industry.

Through the discussion participants will explore innovative approaches to sports “pre-hab” and athlete support services. Attendees will learn about the unique features of cognitive aspects of athlete recovery, such as memory, sequencing, and safety awareness, which may be surprising or novel to them. 

Attendees will learn about strategies for community engagement, marketing and outreach in the sports industry from experienced leaders. By hearing the panelists discuss potential strategies for promoting resources within the communities they serve, participants will gain valuable insights into effective approaches for reaching diverse audiences and addressing community needs in sports-related contexts.

Learning Outcomes: 

Participants will be able to do the following: 

1. Identify leadership roles in sports business. 
2. Identify innovative approaches to sports recovery and brain health. 
3. Identify strategies for community engagement. 

Instructional Level: Introductory 

Time ordered agenda

5 minutes - Introduction 

10 minutes - leadership roles in sports business. 

10 minutes  - innovative approaches to sports recovery and brain health. 

10 minutes - strategies for community engagement. 

10 minutes  Q&A 

ABOUT THE MODERATOR

Disclosures: Financial disclosures include receiving a registration waiver and travel honorarium for this presentation. Nonfinancial disclosures include being a Head to Speech Board of Director. 

Monique A. J. Smith is a leadership Strategist for Athletic Departments/Sport Organizations and Individuals who wish to Advance in Athletic Administration or Sports Management Careers. She served on several NCAA committees and National boards that addressed trends in Athletics, such as mascots, bowling, conference realignments and women Leadership opportunities. Monqieu believes her ability to forecast the landscape of athletics for my previous employers and current clients has kept her relevant and employed. For a decade now, Monique has hosted an internationally known podcast called A Chat in the Garden where she interviews Black Women in Athletic Administration and Sports Management Careers. She has taught Sports Management courses at Hampton University and Old Dominion University. Most recently she became the publisher of the Magazine "Significance in Athletics and Sports".  All issues maybe found on Amazon. 

ABOUT THE SPEAKERS

Laurie Governor Curtis

Business Consultant, Coach, Student-Athlete Development Leadership

Disclosures: Financial disclosures include receiving a registration waiver for this presentation. No non-financial disclosures to disclose. 

Laurie Governor Curtis is an author, speaker and coach. She is also CEO and Founder of On

The Court Solutions. Laurie is passionate about empowering individuals and businesses to

reach their fullest potential. Her mission is to help others discover their purpose and develop a pathway to reach their goals.

Laurie holds a Masters of Sports Management and a Bachelors of Mathematics from the University of Richmond. At Richmond, Laurie was a 4-year starter on the Women’s Basketball Team. Laurie is a two-time inductee into the University of Richmond Hall of Fame (Women’s Basketball Player and Women’s Basketball Team of Distinction).

With over 20 years of leadership experience on and off the court, Laurie is no stranger to setbacks and challenges. She understands the impact hard work, resilience and determination can play in achieving your goals. Her approach is powered by her personal experiences and providing real-life examples that inspire and motivate others to succeed personally and professionally.

Her personal brand is built on a foundation of authenticity, empathy, and a results-driven approach. Through her leadership and athlete development programs, workshops, coaching, and speaking, Laurie helps individuals achieve their goals and reach new heights of success.

Her core belief is despite what you face, you have the power to choose how you respond to it!

Patrice Bowman 

Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the D.C. Divas

Offensive Line Coach

Vice President of Operations for the Minor Football League (MFL) 

A Journey of Triumph On and Off the Field

Disclosures: Financial disclosures include receiving a registration waiver for this presentation. No non-financial disclosures to disclose. 

Patrice Bowman, affectionately known as Coach Bowman, is a dynamic figure in the world of sports, renowned for her exemplary career as both a coach and front office executive. Born and raised in the heart of the Nation's Capital, she brings a unique blend of tenacity, passion, and a heartfelt commitment to her roles in football and community advocacy.

On the Field:

Coach Bowman's journey on the football field is a testament to her unwavering dedication. She began her football career in the late 90s, playing flag football with sheer enthusiasm. However, her defining moment came when the D.C. Divas burst onto the scene in 2001. Patrice Bowman, with the heart of a champion, joined the Divas' ranks in 2002 and proudly wore their colors for five remarkable seasons, culminating in a national championship win in 2006. Her presence on the field was not only as a player but as a natural leader and an extension of the coaching staff.

In 2008, history was made when Coach Ezra Cooper appointed Bowman as his assistant offensive line coach and head of the practice squad. She shattered barriers, becoming the first female position coach in the storied history of the D.C. Divas. Bowman's journey continued as she returned to the Divas' sidelines, serving under head coaches Tim Smart and Alison Fischer.

Her expertise was not limited to women's football. Patrice Bowman ventured into coaching youth football from 2012 to 2016, nurturing young talents and laying the foundation for their future success. Her dedication to expanding the realm of women's football led her to the Washington Prodigy, where she played a pivotal role as the offensive line coach, contributing to three consecutive national championships from 2017 to 2019.

Coach Bowman's prowess did not stop there. In 2018, she was invited to coach as an assistant offensive line coach for the International Women's Team, further cementing her legacy in the sport. Her tireless support and skill development efforts resulted in several players earning coveted all-star spots during her tenure.

In recognition of her remarkable contributions, Coach Bowman was celebrated as a Hall of Fame finalist for the DC Divas in November 2021. Her enduring passion for coaching brought her back to her roots in 2021, where she served as the Director of Professional Development and Offensive Line Coach for the DC Divas, helping lead the team to the playoffs.

In a historic move in the spring of 2022, Coach Bowman became the first woman to hold the position of Head Coach for Montgomery County, where she revitalized the Wootton Senior High School's JV football program.

Under her guidance, the team witnessed unprecedented success, the JV program breaking scoring records and the varsity program clinching their first-ever playoff win.

Off the Field:

Beyond the gridiron, Patrice Bowman is a devoted mother and grandmother, cherishing her role as a family matriarch. Her deep-seated commitment to making a positive impact in the community is exemplified through her son's foundation, "Payton's Path," dedicated to empowering youth and fostering their personal growth.

Coach Bowman's passion extends beyond the sport. She firmly believes in meeting people where they are and working alongside them to identify strategies for self-care, mental health, and personal growth. Her unwavering commitment to helping individuals become better human beings is a testament to her character.

In December 2021, Coach Bowman's journey took a new turn as she was selected as an intern with the National Football League (NFL), marking yet another milestone in her illustrious career. Today, she stands as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the D.C. Divas, continues to mentor and coach as the Offensive Line Coach for the Divas, lead the Wootton High School JV team in early 2023, and has been recruited as the Vice President of Operations for the Minor Football League (MFL).

Patrice Bowman's remarkable journey in the world of sports and her unwavering commitment to community development serve as an inspiration to all. She continues to be a trailblazer, breaking barriers and leaving an indelible mark on the game she loves and the lives she touches.

Session Title: Engaging with the Press and the Public as a Brain Health Ambassador 

Session Description: Athletes need to know how to engage with the press and the public about their commitment to brain health, their personal stories about sustaining sports concussions or representing as an Ambassador. This course helps athletes effectively integrate this information and prepare for the many interviews they will encounter as they journey along their career. Whether the interview is after practice, after an exhilarating game win or devastating game loss, or even at a red carpet event representing a nonprofit it is always important to be ready and prepared with the do’s and don’ts of interviewing. In the age of many social media platforms and numerous ways to communicate virtually, this course is designed to help athletes navigate the challenges of social media and engage with the public.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify how to engage with the press and the public about brain health, personal stories about sustaining sports concussions and representing as an Ambassador.
2. Identify the different types of interviews that athletes will have to encounter as they journey along their career.
3. Identify the do’s and don’ts of interviewing.  
4. Identify ways to navigate the challenges of social media and engage with the public.

Instructional Level: Introductory 

Time ordered agenda

5 minutes - Intro to helping athletes effectively prepare for engaging with the press and the public 

10 minutes - Different types of interviews: how to engage with the press and the public about brain health, personal stories about sustaining sports concussions and representing as an Ambassador 

10 minutes  - The do’s and don’ts of interviewing.  

10 minutes - Navigate the challenges of social media and the public

10 minutes  Q&A 

ABOUT THE WORKSHOP FACILITATOR

Candi Waller

Disclosures: Financial disclosures include receiving an Honorarium for this presentation. Non-financial relationships to disclose include President of the CWall Foundation, Inc. 

Candi Waller also known as "CWall" is the President of Bowie Television (located in Bowie, Maryland), Founder and CEO of CWall® Sports & Entertainment, President of the CWall Foundation, Inc, and the Managing Publisher of the Sports Illustrated Fan Nation Inside the Wizards site. A native of Gorgeous Prince George's County, Maryland, Candi has been an authentic lover of all sports since her childhood. She was such a sports fan at an early age that she notes one of her favorite childhood shows as the legendary "George Michael Sports Machine". Candi holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Hampton University, Master of Arts in Human Resource Development from The George Washington University and a certificate in Sports Industry Essentials from Columbia University.

Prior to and during her work in the sports industry, Candi has established her identity as a results-driven, relationship building advocate and professional with extensive years of experience leading and implementing successful strategic change, communications, and stakeholder engagement programs across geographically dispersed organizations. She’s worked across Big Four and Government Trusted Advisor consulting firms such as IBM, Deloitte, and the MITRE Corporation.

She is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, Women in Sports & Events (WISE), the National Press Club (NPC), the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), the Prince George’s County Chamber of Commerce and is an ambassador for the National Museum of African American History and Culture. In terms of what she likes to do for fun, that’s just it…anything that is considered fun, she’s all for it! She’s very close to her parents, brother, and sister, and has a host of nieces, nephews, and godchildren.

Session Title: Triumph over Trial: Helping athletes triumph over trials and tribulations associated with sports concussion

Session Description: This panel focuses on the following concepts that will help athletes triumph over trials and tribulations associated with sports-related concussion. 

Learning Objectives: 

1. Identify how to create a safe and supportive environment
2. Identify the importance of self-awareness
3. Describe coping strategies
4. Identify how to foster a growth mindset
5. Describe how to normalize seeking help
6. Identify strategies for community engagement

Instructional Level: Introductory 

Time ordered agenda

5 minutes - Introduction and Creating a safe and supportive environment

10 minutes - Importance of self-awareness

10 minutes  - Introducing coping strategies and Normalizing seeking help

10 minutes - Fostering a growth mindset and  ongoing support 

10 minutes  Q&A 

ABOUT THE PANELISTS

Presented by the College of Arts & Sciences from the University of the District of Columbia 

Dr. Nathalie Mizelle

UDC Division of Education, Health and Social Work Division Chair 

Disclosures: Financial disclosures include receiving a registration waiver for this presentation. No non-financial disclosures to disclose. 

Dr. Nathalie Mizelle is a powerhouse in the field of mental health and rehabilitation. Armed with a doctorate in Rehabilitation Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from North Carolina Central University, she brings over two decades of professional expertise to the table. With an impressive portfolio comprising more than 20 articles, book chapters, and edited books, Dr. Mizelle is a prolific writer and researcher.

Her influence extends beyond academia, as she has secured substantial grants totaling millions of dollars for behavioral health projects, including the prestigious HRSA Disadvantaged Student Award and grants from the Department of Education and RSA. Dr. Mizelle's expertise covers a broad spectrum, ranging from resilience and trauma to micro-aggression and ethnic identity. She is a sought-after subject matter expert in areas such as tele-health counseling and multicultural issues within counseling and higher education.

In her role as a counselor educator for two decades, Dr. Mizelle has left an indelible mark on the next generation of mental health professionals. She is deeply committed to counseling advocacy and organizational goals, striving to shape the educational experiences of professional counselors for the better. Beyond her professional pursuits, Dr. Mizelle finds joy in simple pleasures like watching movies, traveling, immersing herself in books, and enjoying music.

Dr. Somanita Kheang

Disclosures: Financial disclosures include receiving a registration waiver for this presentation. No non-financial disclosures to disclose.

Dr. Somanita Kheang is a Visiting Assistant Professor of Adult Education in the Division of Education, Health, and Social Work at the University of the District of Columbia. She earned her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, Policy, and Human Development from North Carolina State University (2023) and her Ed.D. in Instructional Leadership from Lindenwood University (2018). Her research uses andragogy, transformative learning, and the impostor phenomenon to explore adult learning experiences and satisfaction in postsecondary education. She has studied these adult learning theories and phenomena with various research participants, including nontraditional and international students from diverse educational, cultural, and professional backgrounds in community colleges and four-year institutions. Based on this and other research, she developed three instructor-specific dimensions that optimize international students’ learning experiences and satisfaction and can be used to develop specific strategies for improving faculty-student interactions in the classroom. Her research activities have resulted in 4 publications, 1 book chapter/section, 6 conference proceedings, and 25 conference presentations/symposia. For more information about the Adult Education Program at UDC, please visit our website here.

Dr. Niyana Rasayon

Associate Professor & Behavioral Neuroscientist in the Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences at the University of the District of Columbia

Brain Health In Melanin Dominant Males 

Disclosures: Financial disclosures include receiving a registration waiver for this presentation. No non-financial disclosures to disclose.

Niyana Rasayon received his Master’s degree at Fisk University & Meharry Medical College joint program in Clinical Psychology.  He earned a Doctoral degree in Psychobiology Neuropsychology at Howard University via Biomedical Research grants and a Danforth-Compton Scholarship. During his early Adjunct Professorship at Northern Virginia Community College Niyana maintained class rotations in psychology at the U.S. Pentagon and Henderson Hall (U. S. Marine Corps Base in Arlington, Virginia). 

Current research interests are chronic concussion syndromes (sequelae post axonal shearing), neuroplasticity, micro-nutrients in mental health conditions, ‘brain-fog’ post COVID-SARS-Virus, as well as a secondary tier of interests, which include undiagnosed PTSD (akin to ‘learned Helplessness’), Racism, Domestic terrorism, and the influence of ancient history on perceptions of “death”. He has authored two books that build on social neuroscience, “Reality Check: A Manual for the Hue-man Octahedron & The Mystery of Melanin, and The Awakening: OMG The President is Black”. Completion of his 3rd book on ‘Ancient Perspectives on ‘Crossing-Over’ during the Summer of 2024 is anticipated. In addition, he is on the Editorial Board of the Journal of Mental Health and Social Behavior, and a Board-Certified Fellow & Diplomate in African Centered-Black Psychology. 

His most recent research project was presented in November of 2023 at the 3rd International Conference on Neuroscience & Psychiatry in Dubai on "Introducing Neuroscience and Artificial Intelligence to the “Meet Joe Black” Pre-death Awareness Phenomena". This was a requested presentation, which followed his presentation in Paris France: Milieu Relevance of Melanin’s Antiviral Effects and Interventions to the COVID-19 Pandemic delivered November 2022 in Paris France: Porte De Clichy, at the 2nd International Conference on Neuroscience & Psychiatry. Visit his website, www.EyesofMaat.com.

Dr. Elizabeth Allen

Disclosures: Financial disclosures include receiving a registration waiver for this presentation. No non-financial disclosures to disclose. 

Dr. Elizabeth Allen is an Associate Professor of Social Work at the University of the District of Columbia. Dr. Allen received her MSW and PhD from UConn School of Social Work. She is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) with extensive clinical experience in mental health, substance abuse, complex-trauma and forensic settings.

Before moving to the District of Columbia from Connecticut in 2022, Dr. Allen taught a wide variety of classes across the micro and macro spectrum, including Human Rights courses in several universities and social work programs (BSW & MSW). Her teaching philosophy is strongly aligned with social work values and ethics, as she aims to achieve student learning that is grounded in the foundations of the profession.

She works diligently to create a safe space for students to learn to work collaboratively, think critically and apply knowledge in a supportive environment. Her extensive clinical experience affords her the opportunity to share clinical stories, allowing students a practical integration and application of knowledge.

Whether teaching a clinical class or a course with focus on structural inequalities, Dr. Allen continuously encourages students to connect micro, mezzo and macro influences into clinical social work practice.

Dr. Allen’s research interests and publications in peer-reviewed journals focus on justice-involved women, substance abuse and behavioral health, racial and gender disparities within the criminal legal system, desistance and community reintegration, desistance and the social work profession and empowerment clinical practice with justice-involved populations. She holds memberships on multiple national organizations and is looking forward to building coalitions within DC and engaging in Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR).

Dr. Tiffany Gurley Nettles 
Pronouns: She/Her

Disclosures: Financial disclosures include receiving a registration waiver for this presentation. Non-financial disclosure: Board member of Head to Speech (2021-2023).

Tiffany C. Gurley-Nettles is a graduate of Virginia State University with a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration. She received her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of the District of Columbia and completed her Ph.D. in Psychology at Walden University.

Dr. Gurley-Nettles is a Medical Speech-Language Pathologist specializing in adult neurogenic disorders and is the Program Director and Assistant Professor for Speech-Language Pathology at the University of the District of Columbia and instructs courses including Neuroanatomy of the Speech and Hearing Mechanism, Aphasia, and Medical Speech-Language Pathology. Dr. Gurley Nettles is also the owner of More Than Just Talk, LLC, a speech-language pathology, community education, and wellness enterprise. Dr. Gurley Nettles has served on the Board of Directors for Head to Speech, Inc. from 2021-2023, as well as serves on the board for Smart Learning Solutions, and serves as the Allied Health Representative for Community Multi Services.

Dr. Gurley-Nettles has 25 years of clinical experience in acute and skilled subacute care in Medical Speech Pathology and 14 years of higher education academic instruction. Dr. Gurley-Nettles is also a Health Psychologist centering this work around her passion for community wellness and education. Her research interests include post-stroke depression, family caregiver stress and wellness, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, mild traumatic brain injury and return to learning, cognitive aging, immersive technology in neurocognitive rehabilitation, brain health and intervention, and health trauma intervention.

Session Description: This session describes the 8-steps that the sports and fitness community can take to begin working out their brains and bodies. The presenter identifies journal prompts and advocacy muscle check-ins that allow the participant to maximize their workout, increase their knowledge, and change their attitudes and behaviors towards their fully specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals. The presenter helps the participant identify specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals. 

Learning Objectives 

1. Identify 8-Steps to Guide You Through Your Brain Workout, Journal Prompts and Advocacy Muscle Check-Ins.  
2. Describe the purpose of journal prompts and advocacy muscle check-ins.  
3. Identify how to set S.M.A.R.T. Goals in order to maximize their brain workout.  

Time ordered agenda 

5 min About the Brain Workout Program 

10 min Head to Speech Brain Workout Road Map: 8-Steps to Guide You Through Your Brain Workout, Journal Prompts and Advocacy Muscle Check-Ins

15 min Maximize Your Brain Workouts by Setting S.M.A.R.T. Goals 

Instructional Level: Introductory 

ABOUT THE WORKSHOP FACILITATOR

Dr. Tabia Pope 

Course Planner and Instructional Personnel 

Disclosures: Relevant financial disclosures include receiving a salary as a Clinical Instructor at the University of the District of Columbia. She financially supports Head to Speech, Incorporated and its causes through in-kind donations and speaking fees. She receives Head to Speech Intellectual Property Rights, honorariums and complementary course registration related to neurogenic language disorders, brain injury, sports concussion management, and brain health. 

Relevant non-financial disclosures include being a non-salaried Chairperson, President and CEO of Head to Speech Incorporated. She is also a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association SIGs 2 and 10, as well as the National Black Association for Speech-Language and Hearing.  

Dr. Tabia Pope serves as the Founding Chair, President & CEO of Head to Speech Incorporated, the leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to educational, scientific and charitable initiatives, which address the impact that post-concussion syndrome has on athletes' speech-language, hearing and cognitive-communication outcomes.

The organization has 14 dedicated Board of Directors, as well as consultants, which provide training to over 60 Ambassadors throughout the global community. Dr. Pope leads Interprofessional Task Force members within the organization's mastermind group. She empowers them to advise, research, educate, and speak on various topics that affect student-athletes, professional and former athletes, and their support systems.

Dr. Pope utilizes her background as a Health Communication Specialist to raise awareness, create content, disseminate toolkits and educational resources to key groups involved in neurogenic disorders, brain injury, and sports concussion management. She is a Clinical Instructor of Speech-Language Pathology at the University of the District of Columbia and Medical Speech-Language Pathologist, where she co-directs the UDC B.R.A.I.N. Lab with an emphasis in Black Men's Brain Health. She designs brain health coaching and Neurocognitive Training including cognitive-communication interventions that are integrated into athletes' sports drills, physical exercise, and daily activities.  

Session Title: Meeting Athletes Where They Are!

Session Description: This session provides instructional knowledge to grow professionally as a sports and fitness professional who integrates brain health, mindfulness and cognitive-communication tasks into athletes sports drills, fitness routines and daily activities.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify dual tasking as the ability to perform two tasks simultaneously.
   Identify the purpose for integrating brain health, dual tasking, cognitive-communication tasks and mindfulness into their physical workouts.
2. Identify how to increase overall awareness of the cognitive-communication skills that are used by athletes, coaches, and athletic trainers every day!
3. Identify athletes’ strengths, weaknesses, to-do words, and Sports specific words and goals to integrate into the brain workout for immediate and delayed memory recall tasks.

Instructional Level: Introductory

Time ordered agenda
5 mins - Dual tasking
5 mins - Purpose of integrating
5 mins - Cognitive-communication skills that athletes use everyday

ABOUT THE WORKSHOP FACILITATOR

Dr. Tabia Pope 

Course Planner and Instructional Personnel 

Disclosures: Relevant financial disclosures include receiving a salary as a Clinical Instructor at the University of the District of Columbia. She financially supports Head to Speech, Incorporated and its causes through in-kind donations and speaking fees. She receives Head to Speech Intellectual Property Rights, honorariums and complementary course registration related to neurogenic language disorders, brain injury, sports concussion management, and brain health. 

Relevant non-financial disclosures include being a non-salaried Chairperson, President and CEO of Head to Speech Incorporated. She is also a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association SIGs 2 and 10, as well as the National Black Association for Speech-Language and Hearing.  

Dr. Tabia Pope serves as the Founding Chair, President & CEO of Head to Speech Incorporated, the leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to educational, scientific and charitable initiatives, which address the impact that post-concussion syndrome has on athletes' speech-language, hearing and cognitive-communication outcomes.

The organization has 14 dedicated Board of Directors, as well as consultants, which provide training to over 60 Ambassadors throughout the global community. Dr. Pope leads Interprofessional Task Force members within the organization's mastermind group. She empowers them to advise, research, educate, and speak on various topics that affect student-athletes, professional and former athletes, and their support systems.

Dr. Pope utilizes her background as a Health Communication Specialist to raise awareness, create content, disseminate toolkits and educational resources to key groups involved in neurogenic disorders, brain injury, and sports concussion management. She is a Clinical Instructor of Speech-Language Pathology at the University of the District of Columbia and Medical Speech-Language Pathologist, where she co-directs the UDC B.R.A.I.N. Lab with an emphasis in Black Men's Brain Health. She designs brain health coaching and Neurocognitive Training including cognitive-communication interventions that are integrated into athletes' sports drills, physical exercise, and daily activities.