The College of Applied Science and Technology (CAST) at Illinois State University is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year! This series, CAST 50×50, will highlight 50 faculty, staff, students, alumni, and organizations within CAST that make the college special. These notable people will tell you that every day in CAST is a great day to be a Redbird!

Today, we are featuring the School of Kinesiology and Recreation’s Justin Stanek.

What is your position within CAST?

Assistant professor, athletic training (AT) program director.

Fun fact about you or your job?

I have a long history of strange injuries starting from when I was young (likely part of how I landed in athletic training). My most recent addition to this list occurred during the first 5 minutes of the swim for Ironman Wisconsin. I was kicked or elbowed in the ear by another participant and it ruptured my eardrum.

What is your favorite sports team and how far would you go to show your support?

Iowa Hawkeyes! I grew up in Iowa so we didn’t have professional sports teams.

Your wife says she’s making dinner: What do you think it’s going to be? If you were making dinner, what would it be?

Her: Peachy Chicken with peas and mashed potatoes. Me: Something on the grill, likely a steak or pork chop along with some grilled veggies.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy the excitement of students that have been newly admitted to the clinical portion of our AT program. They are so eager to begin learning the content. I also really enjoy hearing about the experiences students are getting through working with preceptors around the community.

Think you know someone that should be featured? Contact us!