BALTIMORE, Md. (June 25, 2025) - The Morgan State University Athletics Department and Vice President/Director of Athletics Dena Freeman-Patton have announced several updates to the sports medicine staff, including the addition of Dr. Darren Barnes as Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine.
 
"We are excited to welcome Dr. Barnes to the Bear Family," said Freeman-Patton. "Dr. Barnes brings a wealth of experience and a proven passion for student-athlete well-being. His leadership will be instrumental in elevating our commitment to holistic health, performance, and the overall success of our student-athletes both on and off the field."
 
Dr. Barnes joins Morgan State after working as the head athletic trainer for Athletic Training Solutions in Sterling, Va., where he was in charge of performing wellness screenings, orthopedic injury assessments, and developing and implementing site-specific wellness initiatives and programs.
 
"I am excited to welcome Dr. Barnes to lead our sports medicine team here at The National Treasure," said Keshia Campbell, Senior Associate Athletic Director for Student Services. "Known for his personable nature and strong, team-oriented approach, Dr. Barnes brings expertise, proactive care and a deep commitment to student-athlete health and performance which align seamlessly with our University's mission. Under his guidance, I am confident that our sports medicine team will further elevate the standard of care for our student-athletes."
 
Two internal updates are also a part of the staff announcements.
 
Bella Bradford was hired as an assistant athletic trainer in 2024, and for her superb work has been promoted to Associate Director for Sports Medicine and will primarily cover football and bowling.
 
Joshua Ray, who first arrived at Morgan in 2022 as an assistant athletic trainer, has also been promoted to Associate Director for Sports Medicine and will primarily cover men's basketball, and men's and women's tennis. 
 
"Our athletic trainers are the backbone of student-athlete health and performance. By promoting Joshua and Bella from within, we recognize the dedication, expertise, and leadership our team members bring every day," Campbell shared. "I am appreciative of AD Freeman-Patton for supporting the investment in their professional growth. It is essential to maintaining stability and increasing opportunities for the success of our student-athletes and their sport programs."