Kirsten Cunha

Dr. Cunha is an Assistant Professor of Professional Practice in the School of Kinesiology and serves as a core faculty member in the Master of Science in Athletic Training program. Dr. Cunha earned her BS in Athletic Training from Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut. She earned her DAT (conc. Teaching and Leadership) from the University of Florida in Gainesville, FL. While at Florida, she completed a clinical residency with the UF School of Theatre and Dance, where she served as the Head Athletic Trainer to the University's BFA Dance and Musical Theatre majors for 2 years. In addition to the performing arts, Dr. Cunha has clinical athletic training experiences within professional athletics, collegiate athletics, and industrial settings. Currently, Dr. Cunha also provides clinical services for LSU’s Spirit Squads, including Cheerleading and Tiger Girls. 

Within the School of Kinesiology, she teaches courses in clinical practice, prevention and care of athletic injuries, nutrition, and psychosocial considerations in sports medicine. Her research interests include exploring the influence of floor surfaces on landing mechanics in performing artists. She is an active member of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, Southeast Athletic Trainers’ Association, Louisiana Athletic Trainers’ Association, the Athletic Trainers’ Association of Florida, the Performing Arts Medicine Association, and the Performing Arts Athletic Trainers’ Society.