About Dr. Dawn Whitaker
Dr. Dawn Whitaker is a change management professional and passionate advocate for athlete wellbeing, specializing in the unique challenges athletes face as they transition out of sport. With over a decade of research and strategy development, she is dedicated to improving the quality of their adjustment to life beyond the field.
Her mission is twofold: to empower individual athletes to navigate this pivotal transition with confidence and resilience and to collaborate with organizations to foster a culture that prioritizes holistic athlete wellbeing. Through her work, she champions initiatives that enhance transition preparedness and address the emotional, mental, and practical challenges athletes encounter in their post-sport journeys.
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Recognizing the critical need for tailored mental health support, Dr. Whitaker launched WellEquined in 2024, a groundbreaking wellness initiative designed exclusively for former athletes. This innovative program integrates equine-assisted therapy with mindfulness practices to provide a unique and effective approach to mental health and wellbeing. As the first program of its kind, WellEquined reflects her commitment to offering transformative solutions for athletes struggling with the emotional and mental impacts of transitioning to life after sport.
Dr. Whitaker's work is rooted in a deep understanding of the athlete experience, informed by years of research, advocacy, and collaboration with athletes and organizations. She is driven by the belief that every athlete deserves the tools and support to thrive in their next chapter.​