Franklin College Athletic Training Master’s Program Director Recognized with Statewide Professional Excellence Award
IATA President Becky Clifton presents Tiffany Franklin the IATA Professional Excellence in Athletic Training recognition.
Photo by Daniel Welty/IATA
The Indiana Athletic Trainers’ Association (IATA) presented its annual professional excellence award to Tiffany Franklin, Ed.D., LAT, ATC. She is director of the Master of Science in Athletic Training Program and an associate professor at Franklin College, where she earned her undergraduate degree in 2007.
Franklin was one of three nominees from across Indiana considered for the IATA Professional Excellence in Athletic Training recognition. A licensed athletic trainer in Indiana for 19 years, she demonstrates a longstanding commitment to the profession through education, research and service. As director of the master’s program at Franklin College, she plays a key role in preparing the next generation of athletic trainers, with contributions spanning mentorship, curriculum development and research aimed at improving student success in athletic training education.
During the awards presentation on June 7, 2025, IATA President Becky Clifton read the following excerpts from Franklin’s nomination letter:
“Beyond her academic contributions, Tiffany has advocated for athletic training and sports medicine through her active participation in professional organizations and presentations at regional and national conferences. Her research on mental health in athletes, diversity in athletic training education and risk reduction of injury reflects her dedication to improving the field. She has also been a preceptor, mentor and faculty adviser, ensuring students receive high-quality education and training. Her roles as a volunteer coach, athletic trainer at community events and mentor to young professionals showcase her dedication to her profession and the well-being of athletes in Indiana.”
IATA Professional Excellence in Athletic Training recognition criteria stipulate that recipients must be Indiana athletic trainers who consistently demonstrate exceptional commitment to the profession through outstanding clinical care, leadership, advocacy and service. Recipients also must exemplify the highest standards of ethical practice, contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the profession and serve as role models for peers and future practitioners.
Throughout her career, Franklin has been an active member of the IATA and currently serves as its treasurer. She earned a doctorate in education with a specialization in leadership from Spalding University, a master’s degree in kinesiology and exercise science from Ball State University and a bachelor’s degree in athletic training from Franklin College. She returned to her alma mater as a faculty member in 2020.
“We are incredibly proud of Dr. Franklin on this well-deserved recognition. She has provided excellent leadership of our MSAT program, tirelessly seeking out opportunities to provide our students with meaningful engaged learning experiences both inside and outside the classroom, while simultaneously championing the profession of athletic training to many different audiences. I am grateful to IATA for acknowledging the many contributions she has made to the field in Indiana,” Kristin Flora, Ph.D., vice president for academic affairs and dean of Franklin College.
Franklin is a resident of New Palestine.