Herbert K. Amato

Herbert K. Amato was inducted into the College of Applied Human Sciences Hall of Fame in the fall of 2025. He was previously inducted into the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Hall of Fame in 2021.

A native of West Virginia, Amato earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education with a specialization in athletic training from West Virginia University, a Master of Science in education from James Madison University, and a Doctor of Arts in physical education from Middle Tennessee State University.

Amato began his professional career teaching and working as an athletic trainer at the high school and collegiate levels before joining James Madison University in 1988. There, he served as director of the Athletic Training Education Program until 2006, leading its development into one of the nation’s most respected programs. He later was appointed associate dean of University Studies and associate vice provost, while continuing to teach graduate-level courses in sport and recreation management leadership.

Internationally, Amato contributed to athletic training through service on medical staffs for the Olympic Games in Seoul (1988), the U.S. Baseball pre-Olympic tour in Italy and Japan, and the USA Deaf Sports Federation, including events in Russia, Bulgaria, and Taiwan. He also co-founded Amato-Cole Educational Services (ACES), a national program preparing students for the Board of Certification examination.

His research and publications span athletic training education and clinical practice, and he has presented at national, regional, and state conferences. Amato’s professional honors include the National Athletic Trainers’ Association Sayers “Bud” Miller Distinguished Educator Award (2003), induction into the Virginia Athletic Training Hall of Fame (2012), and James Madison University’s Omicron Delta Kappa All Together One Award (2008).

Amato has also served on leadership committees with the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, the Virginia Athletic Trainers’ Association, and the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education. In addition to his professional commitments, he has volunteered extensively in his community as an athletic trainer, church member, and contributor to the Harrisonburg City Public Schools Health Advisory Board.