It is my honor as President of the CT Chapter to announce that 3 of our members received National Awards based on their service to this chapter and AMTA as a whole. It is quite an honor for a chapter member to be selected on the National level for an award. This year 3 of our members were recognized and selected out of nominations from all 50 states.
The full article with all of the National awards is https://www.amtamassage.org/about/news/2021-national-awards-page/?utm_source=informz&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=members&utm_content=hands-on-september-2-2021-all-members
Nikki Arel – 2021 Government Relations Activist Award
Nicole is being recognized for her instrumental work with legislative efforts for the Connecticut Chapter. She has built strong working relationships with state legislators, legislative staff, and the lobbyist. Nikki has also been involved in working with the Department of Public Health and the massage therapy schools in Connecticut to ensure their support for the legislative changes to the education hours and liability insurance requirement.
Her passion for the profession of massage therapy, her effective communication, and her ability to make clear and concise comments have played a vital role in her legislative successes.
The Government Relations Activist Award is presented to an individual for exceptional accomplishments at the chapter and/or the national level of AMTA for their governmental relations activities.
Tama Mackay – 2021 Sports Massage Achiever Award
Tama is being recognized for being an outstanding ambassador for massage therapy within the athletic community. She is trained in a variety of sports and orthopedic techniques that give athletes a competitive edge, increase flexibility and reduce the risk of injury. Tama works with athletes and sporting associations at both the college and professional level.
She has also worked with Olympic athletes and alongside chiropractors, trainers, and physical therapists. Tama is passionate about sports massage and truly values the importance of communicating with her clients to provide the most effective treatment. And, she willingly shares her knowledge with those who aspire to follow in her footsteps in sports massage therapy.
The Sports Massage Achiever Award is given to an AMTA member for accomplishments in the area of sports massage.
Becca Torns-Barker – 2021 National Meritorious Award
Becca has left a permanent stamp on the Connecticut Chapter with her leadership, organizational skills and passion for the massage therapy profession. She has been a strong advocate for continuing education and has been a visible presence to chapter members during the pandemic.
Becca has served on the national governance committee, as a leader in the Chapter President’s Council and as chair and member of the policy review workgroup. She has also served at National Convention as a Chapter Leadership presenter. Becca exemplifies excellence and a desire to elevate AMTA members and the profession to a new level.
The National Meritorious Award is given for diligent volunteerism done in an altruistic manner.