The Darton Health Professions Foundation proudly announces its sponsorship of Dr. Michele Monaco, Associate Professor of Athletic Training at Albany State University, who has been selected to serve on the Team USA Medical Team for the upcoming Maccabiah Games in Israel.

“This sponsorship reflects the Foundation’s commitment to advancing excellence in the health professions and supporting local leaders who impact both academic and athletic communities on a global scale,” said Randae Davis, Executive Director of the Foundation.

Commonly referred to as the “Jewish Olympics,” the Maccabiah Games second largest international sporting event in the world, surpassed only by the Olympics, and features over 10,000 athletes from more than 80 countries. As a member of the elite Team USA Medical Team, Dr. Monaco will provide direct medical care and performance support to athletes, specifically working with the U.S. Men’s Soccer and Basketball teams to ensure optimal health and injury prevention.

Although honored by the selection, Dr. Monaco initially faced financial barriers to participation. “Several thousands of dollars of sponsorship are required for a team member’s travel and accommodations,” explained Dr. Sarah Brinson, Dean of the Darton College of Health Professions at Albany State and Foundation board member. “I encouraged her to submit a request, and as always, the Foundation was generously receptive to supporting our faculty.”

Dr. Brinson added, “When Mr. Davis presented this opportunity during one of our executive committee meetings, it received unanimous support. Unfortunately, the initial window to make financial arrangements closed before we could act. Thankfully, when the opportunity resurfaced a week later, the Foundation made an immediate commitment to secure Dr. Monaco’s spot.”

“The opportunity to support these athletes on an international stage is both an honor and a responsibility,” said Dr. Monaco. “Our role extends beyond providing care for our own team. We are part of a broader medical staff handling injury triage, immediate care, and referrals for aftercare in each athlete’s home country. I’m incredibly grateful to the Darton Health Professions Foundation for making this opportunity possible through their generous sponsorship.”

A Certified Athletic Trainer and Positional Release Therapist, Dr. Monaco brings decades of experience and a deep passion for athlete care and education. She holds a Doctor of Science in Athletic Training and degrees from Lock Haven University and St. Thomas University. Her distinguished career includes service to the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, the Board of Certification, and the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education.

She has presented at numerous state, regional, and national conferences, and her leadership is evident in her work with international committees and journal review boards. She has also served as an athletic trainer for the New York, Chicago, and Boston Marathons. Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Monaco is dedicated to community service, participating in building and medical mission trips abroad. She is a valued member of the Albany State University faculty.

The Darton Health Professions Foundation is honored to support Dr. Monaco in this prestigious role, recognizing her as a trailblazer in athletic training and an inspiring leader in health education and service. 

“We could not be prouder of Dr. Monaco and her willingness to go into a war-torn country to selflessly serve her country and others as a citizen of the United States and a representative of Albany State University,” said Davis. “She exemplifies bravery and dedication to be a global health ambassador and a servant-leader on a world stage of sports training and wellness.”