Current Changes at JAPT for 2022

Abstract

As we floated into 2022, there were several changes to the coeditors’ position of the Journal of Aquatic Physical Therapy (JAPT). Our coeditor, Dr Yasser Salem, decided to step down at the end of 2021. The decision to step down was prompted by Dr Salem's assuming a leadership position as the Founding Program Director of a Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Hofstra University, Long Island, New York. Dr Salem will continue to serve the JAPT as a member of the journal's editorial board and as a reviewer. We are honored to share his farewell message: Dr Salem says, “After more than nine happy years as a coeditor, I feel it's time for a new phase in my career life.” Dr Salem also says, “I have been honored to serve the Journal of Aquatic Physical Therapy (JAPT) for these many years and see the journal grow over the years.” With the leadership of myself and Dr Anita Van Wingerden, and the support of the Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy Presidents and leaders, the journal increased from 2 to 3 issues per year and also increased the number of articles published each year. In 2021, the journal successfully transitioned to its current online format with Wolters Kluwer. Dr Salem wishes Drs Anita Van Wingerden and Natalie Michaels, the new coeditors, “All the best in leading the journal—with their expertise and compassion, I am confident that they will move the JAPT forward for further success.” Yasser Salem, PT, PhD, NCS, PCS Although Dr Salem will be greatly missed, we wish him great success in his new endeavor and appreciate the dedication and scholarly guidance he provided as a coeditor for JAPT since 2013. An additional change we would like to share is the acceptance of Dr Natalie Michaels as the new coeditor of JAPT. Natalie Michaels, PT, EdD, GCS Emeritus, is a professor in the College of Health Sciences at Belmont University, with the School of Occupational Therapy. Natalie Michaels, PT, EdD, GCS Emeritus, ATRIC Dr Michaels received her bachelor's degree in Physical Therapy from Ithaca College, a master's degree in Applied Psychology from Fairfield University, and a doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Central Florida. She first began teaching as a professor at Tennessee State University in the Department of Physical Therapy in 2006 and then at Belmont University from 2014 until present. Dr Michaels is a certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist (GCS) Emeritus with the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. She is also a Credentialed Clinical Instructor with the APTA and a Certified Aquatic Therapist with the Aquatic Therapy and Rehabilitation Institute (ATRI), and she completed her Aquatic Clinical Competency from the APTA in 2015. She serves as an item writer for the GCS examination and has served as a reviewer for multiple journals, including the JAPT. She has also been active in the community with the development and implementation of Aquatic Exercise Programs for Older Adults and for children with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Dr Michaels has more than 40 peer-reviewed publications since 2008 on topics such as aquatic exercise, the accuracy of activity monitors in the water, fall prevention, balance, and scoliosis. Dr Michaels reports, “I am excited to begin this journey with Anita Van Wingerden and the Journal of Aquatic Physical Therapy.” Her contact information is: Natalie Michaels, PT, EdD, GCS Emeritus, ATRIC Professor School of Occupational Therapy College of Health Sciences Belmont University Nashville, Tennessee Phone: [615.460.6791] | Mobile: [615.604.3727] [email protected] On behalf of the JAPT, we wish all of you a happy, healthy, and successful New Year! Sincerely your new coeditors, Anita Van Wingerden and Natalie Michaels.