On Saturday, November 4, 2023 the Scarlet Knights will celebrate Military Appreciation Day at SHI Stadium. Rutgers School of Health Professions assistant professor in the Department of Rehabilitation and Movement Sciences, Emily Balog, is among the veterans who will be honored at the game. 

A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Dr. Emily Balog (Bay-log) has dedicated her life to safeguarding our nation and its citizens. Specializing in Emergency Management and Disaster Preparedness, she has expertly navigated the complexities of Nuclear, Biological, Chemical, and Radiological Warfare Preparedness and Defense, as well as natural disaster response. In 2008, Sgt. Balog deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom during the Iraq war, showcasing her unwavering commitment to our country.  

Dr. Balog shines as an Assistant Professor at Rutgers University, where she plays a pivotal role in the inaugural Occupational Therapy Doctoral Program. With over 17 years of experience in occupational therapy, she has been a beacon of hope and support for the geriatric community, specializing in rehabilitation, home modification, and aging in place.  

Dr. Balog’s pursuit of knowledge is evident in her Ph.D. in Translational Health Science. Her research seamlessly intertwines community engagement, knowledge translation, team science, and implementation science with occupational therapy, making significant strides in the field and beyond.  

In 2018, Dr. Balog was selected as a Pat Tillman Scholar—an organization named after fallen NFL superstar and Army Ranger, Pat Tillman, who’s mission is to unite and empower remarkable military service members, veterans and spouses as the next generation of public and private sector leaders committed to service beyond self. Dr. Balog continues to lead, serve, and inspire as a regional captain for the foundation. Her dedication to service did not stop there. This year, she was honored with the Make Your Mark award for her instrumental role at Action Tank, a non profit veteran organization serving the needs of Greater Philadelphia by addressing areas such as food insecurity, gun violence, the tree canopy, and period poverty. Dr. Balog also volunteers for Team Foster, an organization that provides service dogs to injured and disabled veterans at no cost to the veteran, and Heroic Gardens, an organization that helps veterans experience the healing power of nature.  

At the heart of her journey is her loving family—her children, Reed and Ivy, and her devoted partner and spouse, and Army veteran Matt Balog. Joined by veteran friends, sisters, and colleagues, they stand by her side today as we honor her incredible contributions.  

Learn more about how Rutgers will honor veterans at Saturday’s game.