(LEBANON, Ill. – Dec. 29) – McKendree University Interim Athletic Director Anthony Francis announced Tuesday, the promotion of Kristin Von Hatten as the new Head Athletic Trainer for the McKendree University Sports Medicine Department.

"While operating in an interim role throughout the fall semester, Kristin immediately showed she was the right person to lead our Athletic Training department on a permanent basis," said Francis. "This position requires a true commitment to Health and Safety of our student-athletes."

Kristin Von Hatten has been part of the McKendree Athletic Training Staff for the past 17 years. When Von Hatten was first hired at McKendree, her primary duties included the Men's Ice Hockey program (eight years) and softball. In addition to her administrative duties, Von Hatten's primary sports coverage at this time include the women's volleyball and softball teams.

"There's not a better person in this position than Kristin, having demonstrated that true commitment for the past 17 years at the University," said Francis. "We were fortunate enough to have Kristin here to help navigate through this global pandemic. She's been integral in essentially every decision surrounding COVID-19, including testing, scheduling, and all the necessary changes to how we operate during these times."

Von Hatten graduated McKendree University in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Athletic Training, with Cum Laude accolades. She was a four-year member of the women's basketball team, which included two American Midwest Conference Championships, that led to trips to the NAIA National Tournament (1999, 2002).

Von Hatten earned a Master of Science Degree in Athletic Training from Ohio University in 2004. While working towards her master's degree, she served as the Head Athletic Trainer for Eastern High School.

Von Hatten has many years of experience with the United States Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program. This coverage provided her the opportunity to work with elite athletes throughout the Midwest Region, traveling abroad to Germany and Costa Rica, along with many domestic USYS events around the country.

Von Hatten has taught classes for the McKendree University accredited athletic training program and health promotion and wellness departments for the past 16 years. She became a certified athletic trainer and a member of the National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA), both in 2002. Von Hatten is a certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and holds certifications in CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers.

"I have no doubt that she will excel in this role for years to come," said Francis. "Our student-athletes are in great hands."

Von Hatten and her husband Jason, reside in Carlyle, Ill., and are the proud parents of two children, McKenzie (10) and Klay (8).