Les Chatelain, a longtime professor in the Department of Health & Kinesiology, passed away recently after a short battle with cancer.
A University of Utah graduate, Chatelain spent his entire career with the University, beginning as an athletic trainer in 1974. He joined the former Health Education department as faculty in 1989 and served as interim/chair for the Department of Health Promotion and Education from 2002-2016.
Throughout his career, Chatelain worked as an expert on health, safety, first aid, stress management and emergency management. While employed as faculty, he also directed the department’s Center for Emergency Programs for almost 34 years. He also served as special assistant to the University’s VP responsible for emergency management.
Chatelain authored multiple textbooks on first aid procedures and prehospital emergency care. He made over 800 presentations to industrial, community, civic church and school groups. And he spent his time volunteering for multiple organizations, serving as chair of the Pre-EMS Committee and a board member with the American Red Cross and Planned Parenthood.
He received the “Unsung Hero” award from the National Association of EMS Educators for his commitment to supporting the national EMS education community. He also served on their Conference Planning Committee.
Chatelain received his BS in health sciences from the University in 1981 with a community health emphasis. In 1987, he earned a MS in health education with an emphasis on worksite health promotion and safety.
“Having known Les for many years as a colleague, I will miss this dear friend who provided great advice to many and positive encouragement to all,” said Scott Ward, interim dean of the College of Health.
“Les thoroughly enjoyed teaching and sharing his knowledge with his students, and his job directing the Center for Emergency Programs was custom fit for him,” said Chris Stratford, interim Director of Emergency Programs in the Department of Health & Kinesiology. “A truer University of Utah fan will be difficult to find.”
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. His years of service to the University of Utah will be recognized at the Health and Kinesiology Awards Banquet in April.