National Elections

Learn about AMTA's National Elections. 

A graphic of the American Massage Therapy Association National Election candidates with five headshots on it.

2025 National Elections

The 2025 Slate Selection Commission is proud to present this year's American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) National Board Election Slate for your approval and support: Bernadette Binns Blount, Pamela Blazek, Donald Goodale, Jane Horton Johnson, and Lee Stang.

This year's slate includes massage therapists from across the profession who bring a wealth of volunteer experience, in both chapter and national positions, to the AMTA Board of Directors. They would all bring their energy and complementary skills to AMTA's National Board.

The AMTA National Elections will be open Monday, November 17 through Monday, December 1. All professional members (as of October 1) are eligible to vote and should receive their ballot via email on November 17. If you haven't received a ballot, please contact chapterrelations@amtamassage.org.

A close-up headshot of Bernadette Binns.

Bernadette Binns Blount (VA)

Biography

Bernadette Binns Blount has been a licensed massage therapist since 2006. She holds a Master of Science in Art Therapy and a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art, as well as a post-graduate certificates in Professional Counseling and Executive Leadership. In 2024, she achieved her License as a Professional Counselor, marking another milestone in her dedication to the helping professions.

Since joining the AMTA Virginia Chapter in 2006, Bernadette has served in numerous leadership roles, including Membership Chair, Chapter Delegate, Vice President, and Board Member. She currently serves as the Virginia Chapter President, a position she has held since 2022. Her long-standing commitment to the chapter has earned her multiple awards and recognition, and she has also contributed at the national level as a member of the Volunteer Leadership Committee.

Bernadette shares, “I am inspired to serve on the AMTA National Board because my curiosity drives me—I want to understand where our profession is headed and help shape its future. For nearly 20 years, I’ve been deeply involved with AMTA Virginia: first within the unit structure, then as a board member, and now as Chapter President."

"I also see myself as a bridge between generations of Virginia volunteers. I was guided by experienced leaders and witnessed a period of transition in our state’s volunteer structure. Now, I want to carry that spirit of service forward and be part of the next stage—connecting the legacy of those who came before with the needs of the next generation of massage therapists.”

Education

  • All Saints High School, Washington, DC, Diploma, 1985
  • Georgetown University, Washington, DC, Bachelor of Arts, Fine Arts, 1990
  • Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, Master of Science, Art Therapy, 1994
  • AKS Massage School, Herndon, VA, Certificate in Massage Therapy, 2005
  • Virginia Board of Nursing, Licensed Massage Therapist, 2006
  • WellOne Services LLC, Business License, 2016
  • Virginia Board of Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, 2017
  • Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, Post Graduate Certificate in Professional Counseling, 2018

Experience

  • National Volunteer Leadership Committee, 2024-2025
  • VA Chapter President, 2022-present
  • VA Chapter Board Member, 2018-2022
  • VA Chapter 1st & 3rd Vice President, 2010-2015, 2016-2018
  • VA Chapter Delegate, 2008-2010
  • VA Chapter Membership Chair, 2006-2021

Awards

  • VA Chapter Retiring Officer, 2015
  • VA Chapter Meritorious Recipient, 2013
  • VA President’s Award Recipient, 2010
A close-up headshot of Pamela Blazek.

Pamela Blazek (ND)

Biography

Pamela Blazek began her healthcare career as part of the United States Air Force, earning certificates as a Medical Service Technician and Allergy Immunology Specialist. She then received a Bachelor of Science degree in Corporate Fitness before becoming a massage therapist in 1997. She has been licensed in multiple states but currently practices in North Dakota.

Pamela’s contributions within the military and the massage therapy profession have earned her a variety of awards. Her range of experience provides a breadth of knowledge that has developed skills vital to collaboration, like patience, listening, and compromise. Pamela has also been involved at the National level as a member of the Volunteer Engagement Committee.

Pamela highlights how, “I easily connect with people and hold space for them. I meet people where they are at, which allows for open conversations. Authenticity is important to me. This has allowed me to bring individuals and groups alike together to work towards a common goal. I consider myself to be a servant leader. I would like to believe I lead by example. I have a cheerleader's heart. My contribution is being one who encourages, promoting personal well-being, growth, and promoting an inclusive community in our industry and beyond.”

Education

  • St. Mary’s High School, Bismarck, ND, Diploma, 1988
  • University of Minnesota Crookston, Crookston, MN, 1988-1989
  • United States Air Force, Active Duty, 1989-1993
    • San Antonio, TX, Basic Military Training, Certificate, 1989
    • Shepard Air Force Base, Wichita Falls, TX, Medical Service Technician, Certificate, 1989
    • Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, D.C., Allergy Immunology Specialist, Certificate, 1990     
  • Minot State University, Minot, ND, Studied, Bachelor of Science, Corporate Fitness, 1994-1996
  • United States Army Reserves, Fargo, ND, Medical Service Specialist, Certificate, 1993-1997
  • The Desert Institute of the Healing Arts, Tucson, AZ, Massage Therapy, Certificate, 1997
  • Massage Therapist, Vacaville, CA, 1997-1998
  • National Certification Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork, Nationally Certified, 1998-2006
  • Licensed Massage Therapist, ND, 1998-2005, 2014-present
  • Licensed Massage Therapist, TN, 2004-2015

Experience

  • National Volunteer Engagement Committee Member, 2022-2025
  • ND Chapter President, 2018-20, 2020-2022
  • ND Chapter Board Member, 2016-2018
  • ND Chapter Education Chair, 2016-2018
  • ND Chapter 2VP, 2014-2016
  • TN Chapter Delegate, 2013-2014

Awards

  • ND Chapter Meritorious Award, 2020
  • Various Military Service Awards
A close-up headshot of Donald Goodale.

Donald Goodale (NY)

Biography

Donald Goodale has been a licensed massage therapist since 2003 and received his NCBTMB Board Certification in 2016. In addition to his work as a massage therapist, he received his Master of Science in acupuncture in 2021 and is a licensed acupuncturist. Donald has been an active chapter volunteer since 2015, which included serving as the NY Chapter President. He is currently an AMTA National Finance Committee Member and the Director of the National Board of Directors; he would be a returning member of the National Board.

During Donald’s tenure as the NY Chapter President, he helped move the chapter forward by growing committees and redefining chair positions. He has made strides to rebuild the foundational infrastructure to help cultivate the future development of the Chapter. Donald is a recipient of the NY Chapter Meritorious Award and President's Award.

Donald emphasizes how he takes “a thoughtful, direct approach to the decision-making process that takes time to define a decision and gather evidence to support the best option in order to achieve the desired result. With inclusivity as a core value, it is important to move through issues in a manner that will include the largest number of members possible.”

Education

  • Kent-Meridian High School, Kent, WA, 1982
  • Fashion Institute of Technology, SUNY, New York, NY:
    • Associate of Applied Science, Menswear Design and Marketing, 1986
    • Bachelor of Science, International Trade, 1998
  • Onondaga School of Therapeutic Massage, Syracuse, NY, Certificate, 2002
  • Licensed Massage Therapist, NY, 2003-present
  • National Certification Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, Nationally Certified, 2003-2006
  • National Certification Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, Board Certified, 2016-present
  • Pacific College of Health Sciences, New York, NY, Master of Science, Acupuncture, 2021
  • Licensed Acupuncturist, NY, 2021-present
  • Pacific College of Health Sciences, New York, NY, Certificate in Chinese Herbology, 2024

Experience

  • AMTA NATIONAL Finance Committee Member, 2025-present

  • AMTA NATIONAL Director, National Board of Directors, 2024-present

  • NY Chapter President, 2022-2024
  • NY Chapter Financial Administrator, 2020-2022
  • NY Chapter Board Member, 2018-2020
  • NY Chapter Communications Committee Chair, 2017-2019
  • NY Chapter Delegate, 2016-2020
  • NY Chapter Member-at-Large, 2015-2016

Awards

  • NY Chapter Meritorious Award, 2022

  • NY Chapter President's Award, 2018

A close-up headshot of Jane Horton Johnson.

Jane Horton Johnson (GA)

Biography

Jane Johnson has been practicing massage therapy since 1987. She is licensed and is Board Certified by the National Certification Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Sociology, with a concentration in Medical Sociology, Applied Associates Degree in Massotherapy and a certificate in Professional Massage Therapy. Jane would be a returning member of the National Board.

For over 25 years, Jane has held a variety of positions with the Georgia Chapter and at the National level. Her tenure with the Chapter has included serving as Vice President, Chair of the Government Relations Committee, Chair of the Policy Committee, and more. She also previously served as the first chair on the Georgia Board of Massage Therapy and was largely responsible for helping massage licensure go into effect in the state. Jane has received numerous AMTA awards for her volunteer service.

Jane explains how, “I desire to continue to serve on the National Board because serving allows me to continue growth in leadership skills, knowledge and teamwork making a stronger Board. I hope to continue serving on committees that are vital to the work of the Board as a dedicated and committed leader and team member. With members at heart, I hope to support others through coaching and mentoring to encourage growth into leadership roles. Fostering the culture of belonging, I look forward to continuing the implementation and awareness of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and the value it adds to AMTA.”

Education

  • Swainsboro High School, Swainsboro, GA, Diploma, 1980
  • Certified Chiropractic Assistant, Gordon College, Barnesville, GA, 1983
  • Chiropractic Assistant, Swainsboro, GA, 1983-1987
  • Certified Chiropractic Assistant, Marietta, GA, 1987-2008
  • Swedish Massage Basic Certificate, Swainsboro, GA, 1987
  • Certified Professional Massage Therapist, GA, 1987-2006
  • Chiropractic Assistant, Marietta, GA, 1987-2008
  • Atlanta School of Massage, Atlanta, GA, Certificate in Professional Massage, 1990
  • Member, American Massage Therapy Association, 1992-present
  • Clinical Massage Associates, Marietta, GA, Owner/Massage Therapist, 1987-present
  • The Neuromuscular Training Center, Atlanta, GA, Certificate, 1992
  • Licensed Massage Therapist, FL, 1993-2019
  • National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, Nationally Certified, 2000-2016
  • Ohio College of Massotherapy, Akron, OH, Associate of Applied Science, 2004
  • Licensed Massage Therapist, GA, 2006-present
  • Kennesaw State University, Bachelor of Science, Sociology (Medical), Kennesaw, GA, 2013
  • National Certification Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, Board Certified, 2016-present

Experience

  • National Board of Directors, Director, 2020-2026
    • Finance Committee, Chair, 2025-2026
    • Minutes Review Committee
    • Audit Commission, Member, 2023-2025
    • Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Operational Committee, 2023
    • Audit Commission, Chair, 2022-2023
    • Member Discipline Review Panel, 2023
    • Chapter Coaching and Counseling Team
    • Workgroup, 2021
  • National Audit Committee, 2023-present
  • National Operational Committee, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, 2023-present
  • National Audit Committee Chair, 2022
  • GA Chapter Board Member, 2018-2020
  • GA Chapter Board Liaison to Government Relations, 2018-2020
  • GA Chapter Government Relations Committee Member, 2005-2009, 2015-2017
  • GA Chapter Local Ordinance Review Committee Member, 2009
  • GA Chapter Awards Committee Member, 2009
  • Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards, Director, 2009-2011
    • Georgia Board of Massage Therapy Delegate, 2009, 2012, 2014
    • Model Practice Act Task Force Chair/Member, 2011-2014
  • GA Chapter Delegate, 2007-2008
  • GA Chapter Policy Committee Member, 2007
  • GA Board of Massage Therapy, 2006-2015
    • Board Member, 2013-2015
    • Legislative Liaison, 2013-2015
    • First Board Chair (7 Terms), 2006-2013
    • Policy and Rules Committee, 2006-2013
  • GA Chapter AMTA National Convention Host Committee Member, 2006
  • GA Chapter Policy Committee Chair, 2005-2007
  • GA Chapter Bill Writing Task Force Chair, 2004-2005
  • National Government Relations Committee Member, 2004
  • GA Chapter Government Relations Committee Chair, 2002-2005
  • GA Chapter Education/Meeting Planning Committee Chair, 2001
  • GA Chapter 1st Vice President, 2000-2005
  • GA Chapter, Government Relations Chair, 2000-2005

Awards

  • National Distinguished Service Award, 2018
  • GA Chapter Outstanding Committee Award, 2017
  • GA Chapter Distinguished Service Award, 2008, 2016
  • GA Chapter President’s Award, 2001, 2004, 2011
  • GA Chapter Meritorious Award, 2002, 2004, 2009
  • National Government Relations Committee Award, 2005
  • National Government Relations Activist Award, 2005
  • GA Chapter Outstanding Committee Chair Award, 2003-2005
  • GA Chapter Outstanding Board Member Award, 2003-2004
  • GA Chapter Outstanding Government Relations Achievement Award, 2001, 2004
  • GA Chapter Government Relations Award, 2003
  • GA Chapter Outstanding Government Relations Award, 2002
  • GA Chapter Government Relations Committee Achievement Award, 2001
A close-up headshot of Lee Stang.

Lee Stang (NC)

Biography

Lee Stang has been a licensed massage therapist since 1995 and has run a successful massage business for 35 years in Connecticut and now North Carolina. She became Board Certified by the National Certification Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork in 2014 and holds a Bachelor of Science from Penn State University and a Master of Science from Indiana University. Lee would be a returning member of the National Board.

As a former massage therapist for the Olympic Games Medical Team in 2002, 2004, and 2012 and a recipient of the National Sports Massage Achiever Award, Lee is a well-respected sports massage educator. In addition, over the last two decades, Lee has served in various leadership roles with AMTA, serving as the Connecticut Chapter President and Moderator and Chair of the Assembly of Delegates. She has received multiple awards at both the national and chapter levels including the National Meritorious, National Government Relations Activist, and the Connecticut Chapter Presidents Awards.

Lee reflects on her time with the Board: “Serving on the National Board of Directors has been one of the most meaningful milestones in my massage therapy career. It has deepened my commitment to the profession and strengthened my desire to continue contributing at the national level. The opportunity to engage in strategic dialogue, thoughtful debate, collaborative problem-solving and forward-thinking with fellow board members—each deeply committed to advancing our profession—has been both energizing and intellectually fulfilling. Having a voice in shaping the direction of our association, participating in informed decision-making, and contributing to its growth has been a humbling and inspiring experience. I value the responsibility and privilege of helping guide our future.”

Education

  • Garnet Valley High School, Boothwyn, PA, Diploma, 1974
  • Penn State University, University Park, PA, Bachelor of Science, Therapeutic Recreation, 1978
  • Indiana University, Bloomington IN, Master of Science, Administration, Outdoor Education, 1982
  • Connecticut Center for Massage Therapy, Newington, CT, Diploma, Massage Therapy, 1995
  • National Certification Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, Nationally Certified, 1995-2013
  • National Certification Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, Board Certified, 2013-present

Experience

  • National Audit Commission Member, 2025-present
  • National Finance Committee Chair, 2024-2025
  • National Onboarding New Board Members Operational Committee, 2024
  • National Board of Directors, 2024-present
  • National Finance Committee Member, 2023-2024
  • National Representative on the NCBTMB SSC, 2023-present
  • National DEI Training and Support Operational Committee, 2023-2024
  • National Board of Directors, 2022-2024
  • NC CSMT Assistant Coordinator, 2019-2022
  • National AOD Moderator, 2018-2022
  • National AODAC Chair, 2018-2022
  • National HOD Moderator, 2014-2017
  • CT Chapter Delegate, 2011-2013
  • National COC Member, 2009-2011
  • National Governance Committee, 2008-2022
  • National Revamping of the Policy Manual Operational Committee, 2009-2010
  • CT Immediate Past President, 2008-2012
  • National workgroup: Revise the formatting of the policy manual assessment, 2008
  • Coordinator CTCSMT Emergency Division, 2007-2015
  • National workgroups: Stipend review work group, estimated time 2006
  • CT Chapter President, 2004-2008
  • National Sports Massage Toolkit Work Group, 2003
  • CT Chapter 2ndVP, 2002-2004
  • CT Chapter Delegate, 2000-2009
  • CT Chapter Sports Team Director, 1999-2002
  • CT Chapter Alternate Delegate, 1998-1999
  • CT Chapter Member, 1995-present

Awards

  • National 30-year Pinning as AMTA Member, 2025
  • 35-year Recognition for National Ski Patrol Volunteering, 2025
  • National Meritorious Award, 2015
  • CT Chapter Meritorious Award, 2002, 2015
  • 25-year Recognition for National Ski Patrol Volunteering, 2015
  • CT National Outstanding Workgroup Award: Member, 2011
  • National Government Relations Activist Award, 2010
  • CT Chapter AMTA President’s Award, 2010
  • CT Chapter AMTA Community Service Award, 2008
  • CT Sports Team Leadership Recognition, 2006
  • National sports Massage Achiever Award: National AMTA, 2006
  • CT Chapter AMTA Sports Massage Team Member of the Year, 2003
  • 1st National Sports Massage Team Award: Member CT Chapter Sports Massage Team, 1995

AMTA National Board Eligibility Requirements 

If you have been an AMTA professional member for at least three years and have served as an elected chapter volunteer, or an appointed or elected national volunteer within the past three years, you are eligible to be considered for the AMTA National Board of Directors.

If you meet these eligibility requirements, consider applying to serve on the National Board of Directors. The application is the first step in a rigorous process designed to help find AMTA members whose personal and professional strengths create the strongest national board team while considering diversity and inclusion.

AMTA National Board Candidate Checklist

To be considered, candidates must meet the eligibility criteria and complete the application process. Find out what AMTA’s National Board application process entails.

  1. Sign the board of directors code of conduct.
  2. Fill out an applicant eligibility form.
  3. Sign the conflict of interest form.
  4. Take four online courses and pass the corresponding online exams.
  5. Fill out the bio application.
  6. Submit a 60-90 second candidate video.
  7. Submit two letters of reference from professional and personal colleagues and friends. 
  8. Participate in a 30-minute phone interview with the Slate Selection Commission.

What is the Slate Selection Commission?

The Slate Selection Commission is a group of current and recent past national volunteers with deep knowledge of AMTA, who guide candidates through the application process and ensure they meet the high standards required of national board service.

Members eligible to serve on this commission include: Chapter President Council Moderators, past national presidents and board members, past and current national standing, advisory and operational committee chairs and members, and past Slate Selection Commission members.

The Slate Selection Commission has the important responsibility to bring forward the strongest slate of candidates for AMTA members to consider.

Bylaws: Slate Selection Commission

  • The Slate Selection Commission receives and reviews applications for candidacy to the national board and shall ensure that one qualified candidate is on the ballot for each open position. A member of the Slate Selection Commission may not be recruited for an elected position.
  • The Slate Selection Commission shall be appointed by the President with approval of the National Board of Directors.
  • Current members of the National Board of Directors may not serve on the SSC.
  • There shall be five members selected from the following four groups:
    • Group 1: Past National Presidents having served within the last five years after completion of their term as Immediate Past President.
    • Group 2: Past National Board Members having completed one full term in their position within the last five years
    • Group 3: Slate Selection Commission members having served within the last five years.
    •  Group 4: Select National Volunteers
      a. Members or Chairs of standing committees, advisory committees, and/or operational committees having completed one full term within their position within the last five years.
      b. Chapter Presidents Council (CPC) moderators having completed one full term within their position within the last five years
      c. Assembly of Delegates Advisory Committee Chairs and members having completed one full term within their position within the last five years.
  • The term is for two years beginning on the first day of the fiscal year following the appointment.
  • Slate Selection Commission members shall serve no more than three consecutive two-year terms, but may be reappointed following at least a year’s absence on the Commission provided that eligibility requirements are met.
  • The President-Elect is an ex-officio and non-voting member.
  • The chair of the Slate Selection Commission shall be appointed by the President.
  • Duties and empowerments of the Slate Selection Commission shall be defined in AMTA policy.

Policy: The SSC has the following duties and empowerments:

  • Shall review AMTA recruitment and elections policies.
  • Shall consult with the Commissioner of Elections regarding the “Call for Candidates” and election education materials.
  • Shall establish candidate application credentialing procedures.
  • Shall assess the skillsets and expertise needed by the board.
  • Shall contact incumbents to discover if they intend to seek re-election.
  • Shall make available appropriate education tools for potential applicants.
  • Shall recruit for all open Director positions between August 1 and November 1.
  • Shall confirm that each candidate has demonstrated a familiarity with AMTA Bylaws, policy, procedure and other relevant information through online testing or similar methods.
  • Shall respond to all applicants in writing from September 1-15 to verify receipt of their application.
  • Shall interview all applicants.
  • Shall determine the best applicants to fill positions on the slate.
  • Shall notify applicants in writing that they are or are not placed on the slate prior to November 15.
  • Shall create and maintain guidelines for publication of candidate information.
  • Shall submit a written report to the Commissioner of Elections before November 15, which includes the final slate.
  • Shall ensure that the slate is published on the AMTA website by November 15.
  • The members of the SSC shall not disclose the names of slated candidates until the slate is posted online.

Resources

Future Directions/Strategic Plan
Director Position Description

Bylaws and Policy

Bylaws—Article VII
Policy—Candidacy & Elections