James “Jim” Johnston, A.T.C.
Jim Johnston earned his Bachelor’s of Science degree in Athletic Training, Physical Education, Health and Biology from Wayne State College in 1981. He then began his career as an Athletic Trainer/Teacher at Millard North High School. In 1990, he completed his Masters of Science in Exercise Science. Jim was president of the NSATA from 2002-2006. He was the recipient of the George F. Sullivan Athletic Trainer of the Year Award in 1998. He also received the ConAgra Creative Educator Award in 1993 for developing a Fitness/Habitat Trail.
He moved to Millard West High School as an Athletic Trainer/Teacher in 1995 and retired from teaching in 2013. Jim started a Student Trainers program and sponsored Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) involving his students in American Red Cross blood drives. He worked as a Clinical Instructor/Preceptor for the University of Nebraska at Omaha mentoring numerous student athletic trainers. Many students attribute their success in the health care field due to his contagious enthusiasm and mentorship.
Jim was a member of the U.S. Olympic Committee Sports Medicine Society starting in 1993. He worked internationally as an athletic trainer with USA Track and Field. Jim served at the US Olympic Training Center, worked World Youth Championships and Pan American Jr. Games as well as working the Atlanta Olympic Games.
He was a major player in rewriting and advocating for passage of the current Nebraska Athletic Training Practice Act. His involvement and passion for the project is one that continues to impact each athletic trainer who becomes licensed in Nebraska. The changes put forth allowed Nebraska athletic trainers greater employment opportunities in schools, clinics and hospitals.
Jim was an eternal optimist when it came to the Huskers. He loved all things Millard West while serving and inspiring student athletes. He was a dedicated cyclist riding hundreds of miles with his brothers. Jim was tragically killed on his bicycle, March 13, 2014.
Jim, a shining example of a loving spouse and father, dedicated his life to his wife Patty, daughter Lindsay, and son Michael.
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