We are thrilled to introduce our new School of Health Sciences Director Dr. Tona Hetzler and School of Health Care Professions Director Dr. Michael Bird.
Hetzler is a certified athletic trainer (AT) and first-generation college graduate. She went to college on an athletic scholarship and played softball for two years at a junior college in Oklahoma. According to Hetzler, a highlight of her AT career was working at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games.
Bird’s expertise is in kinesiology and exercise science. He received his MS degree from Purdue University and his PhD from University of North Carolina. According to Bird, his favorite thing to do during his free time is mountain and road biking, as well as trying out new restaurants.
Let’s get to know them more.
What are you looking forward to as a school director?
Hetzler: I’m looking forward to working with and getting to know all the faculty, staff and students. I’m also looking forward to all the opportunities that will come with this new structure regarding being more accessible for students, collaborating on research projects and working in teams to create new opportunities for students and faculty.
Bird: I’m most looking forward to the challenges that come with a new position. There’s much to learn about the programs in the school, the students who have chosen to pursue the degrees available and the faculty who are teaching the courses that will lead to student success. The School of Health Care Professions has many accredited programs with great students and faculty. My focus will be on making sure I know what I need to do to help them plan for growth to meet the needs of professionals in their respective areas.
What brought you to Missouri State?
Hetzler: The athletic training program and the opportunity the Springfield medical community offered for the profession and students.
Bird: I came to Missouri State to lead the kinesiology department. I was impressed with the faculty who were here and wanted to provide leadership for the students, faculty and staff that would help improve the academic experience for all of them.
How long have you been at Missouri State?
Hetzler: It has been 17 years.
Bird: I’ve been here since summer 2022. So, not a long time, but it has been enjoyable professionally and personally.
What’s your favorite thing about working at Missouri State?
Hetzler: The students, the faculty, the support of MCHHS (McQueary College of Health and Human Services) and the university’s public affairs focus.
Bird: My favorite thing about MSU is definitely the people. The students, faculty and staff take so much pride in the university and work hard to make their experiences worthwhile.
What’s your number one goal going into this new role?
Hetzler: To learn, to innovate and to elevate.
Bird: My biggest goal is to learn about the programs and the people involved. I’ll need this understanding as one of the first steps to helping them achieve their goals.
What’s your dream summer vacation?
Hetzler: Time on the beach, no cooking and no emails.
Bird: I enjoy time with family and friends where we balance some physical activities like hiking and biking with good food and time to relax. There’s no ideal location as long as it’s interesting and shared with others.