12 Women's GNAC Student-Athletes named Athlete of the Year Finalists

WINTHROP, Mass. – Twelve Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) women’s student-athletes were named finalists for the 2023-24 GNAC Athlete of the Year award for women’s sports. The nominees are also their respective school’s institutional nominees for the 2024 NCAA Woman of the Year.

The GNAC Athlete of the Year award is modeled after the NCAA Woman of the Year award. It recognizes graduating student-athletes who have distinguished themselves throughout their collegiate careers in the areas of academic achievement, athletics excellence, service and leadership.

This year’s finalists, who are also their respective school’s institutional nominees for 2024 NCAA Woman of the Year are:

• Caitlyn Scott, Albertus Magnus

• Shay Savoie, Anna Maria

• Aleah Murph, Colby-Sawyer

• Mackenzie Fillion, Dean

• Elise Paier, Elms

• Olivia Conti, Emmanuel

• Kaitlin Bedell, Lasell

• Hannah Shaner, Norwich

• Lyric Grumblatt, Rivier

• Angelica Hurley, Saint Joseph’s (Maine)

• Riley Wasiuk, Simmons

• Jordan Ouellette, University of Saint Joseph (Conn.)

The GNAC Athlete of the Year for women’s sports will be announced next week and will be submitted as the conference nominee for both NCAA Woman of the Year and the Division III Commissioners Association (D3CA) Woman’s Sport Student-Athlete of the Year.

ABOUT THE NOMINEES

 Caitlyn Scott | Albertus Magnus | Women's Basketball

 Major: Pre-Med

 Scott earned her Pre-med degree from Albertus Magnus with a 3.27 GPA. Her academic efforts led her to being named to the GNAC All-Academic Team twice. On the court, she earned All-Conference honors three times, two-time GNAC Player of the Week, a GNAC All-Tournament team member, a D3 Hoops.com Region I Third Team member, and was named the United States Basketball Writers Association Division III Player of the Week. She scored 1,490 career points (sixth in program history) and finished third in the conference in assists (106), points per game (20.8) and fourth in field goals made (186).

Personal Statement:

“I didn’t see myself attending Albertus Magnus, let alone all of the accolades I achieved in my four years of being there. However I’m proud to say I’m a falcon and I bleed blue. 

While at Albertus Magnus I majored in biology. I choose to be in biology because I want to pursue a career in health care. Currently I don’t know what specifically I want to do but I do know that I want to help people get better. Something about helping and being a part of someone’s progress on becoming healthier is fulfilling to me. That feeling is a sense of satisfaction, just as when the ball flies through the net after I shoot it, followed by the fans jumping up and cheering. 

Basketball is the one thing that was reliable in life, my escape place. So knowing that I had an opportunity to keep doing something I love whilst becoming more educated in the field of biology sounded like a wonderful opportunity. I am not too big on awards, but I am honored to be nominated for Female Athlete of the Year. Playing the sport alone is a big enough award for me, being able to run up and down the court and be entertaining to people is good enough for me. Yea it’s cool and all to be recognized but sometimes worrying about awards can take away from the passion or enjoyment of a sport. 

During the four years I played at Albertus I was appointed captain for three of the four years. When I first started I didn’t think that I deserved the captain title. However, as I got older and matured I learned how to not only be passionate about the game but to be passionate about competing, as well as leading my teammates. I learned how to prioritize the team’s success over my own needs as well as the well being of those around me. I treated my teammates with respect, recognized their contributions, and learned how to address problems positively and effectively. Three key factors that were essential to being a leader were learning how to adapt, communicate, and maintaining a positive attitude. Communication is important because effective communication ensures that the leader can convey their vision, goals, and expectations clearly to their team. Thus leading to better collaboration and productivity. Adaptability is essential for a leader like myself to navigate uncertainty and respond to unexpected challenges. This flexibility allows me to stay relevant, make informed decisions, and allows me to guide my team through transition effectively. Lastly, having a positive attitude is essential. Having a positive attitude is contagious and can significantly impact the morale and motivation of the team. My job is to encourage, support, and allow for a constructive work environment, allowing those around me to feel valued and empowered to achieve their best. 

Together, these qualities enable me to be a successful leader who inspires, motivates, and empowers my team to reach their full potential. By fostering open communication, adapting to changes with agility, and maintaining a positive outlook, I was able to build strong relationships, drive innovation, and achieve sustainable growth for my team.”

 Shay Savoie | Anna Maria | Softball & Women's Volleyball

 Major: Business Administration

 Savoie earned her undergrad degree at Anna Maria in Business Administration, finishing with a 3.8 GPA. On the Diamond, she earned Third-Team All-GNAC honors this past season. Savoie led the team with a .432 batting average while also breaking the school record with 40 stolen bases in a single season. Savoie would also rank first in the GNAC for stolen bases this season. She would notch a total of 51 hits with a team high of eight doubles, three triples and three home runs. Her efforts named her the Female Athlete of the Year at Anna Maria. The Amcats graduate also played Women's Volleyball. Outside her athletic career, she was a part of the school's Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and attended last year's GNAC Leadership Forum.

Personal Statement:

 Aleah Murph | Colby-Sawyer | Field Hockey

 Major: Sociology and Human Services

 Murph graduated from Colby-Sawyer with a 3.69 GPA, majoring in Sociology and Human Services. The 2022 GNAC Defensive Player of the Year made the all-conference teams three times, won the 2022-23 Charger Female Athlete of the Year, and was a two-time National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) All-Region member. She left the Chargers with the most assists and defensive saves in program history. Academically, Aleah made the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District team twice, NFHCA Academic Squad, and the GNAC Academic All-Conference three times. Outside of her student-athlete life, the Charger volunteered at the New London Food Pantry, which she helped purchase and package meal boxes for families in need, was a SAAC member for Colby-Sawyer, and volunteered at Simonds Elementary School, assisting teachers and observing classrooms.

Personal Statement:

“The year 2020 was a year that none of us will ever forget because it revealed the weakest and most defective parts of the world we live in. It was the year that changed everything for me and my passion for social justice came through as I watched George Floyd get murdered on my television screen repeatedly. Though 2020 had such a negative impact on my life, it would be wrong to ignore the new life it opened for me. I was constantly trying to learn about history, how it has affected minority groups, and how that treatment still affects them today. Colby-Sawyer is where I was able to channel that passion into thoughtful discussions and rigorous readings about race, gender, sexuality, socioeconomic status and more with my classmates and professors. My time volunteering at the food pantry and the local elementary school allowed me to see into the complex poverty issues that the local areas are facing, further highlighting the importance of having a robust and supportive education system. Both subjects led me to my senior research project, which I received an award for, where I was able to combine my passions for learning about racism and education and finding ways to combat the systematic injustices minority groups face in the education system.

Outside of the classroom and on Sally Shaw Field, was where I was able to really play into who I am as a leader. I came to Colby-Sawyer in 2021 as a sophomore, so I was new but not like the first years. I had told myself from the beginning that I wasn’t expecting playing time, but that wasn’t an excuse to not try. My hard work paid off and I ended up starting every game for that season and I took that as an opportunity to really take my game to the next level. I have always been a reserved person and that has translated to how I am as an athlete, so I knew it was time to be different. In the summer before junior year, I participated as a coach in two field hockey camps right before the season. These two camps helped me figure out how to navigate coaching scenarios and how to express all that I know about the game of field hockey.

I continued to up my communication skills during practice and games throughout the season, so I was able to earn the GNAC defensive player of the year award, as well as the Colby-Sawyer Female Athlete of the Year. Moving onto senior year I was graced with the ability to be a captain on my team with two other amazing teammates. I felt that I was ready for this position with all the work I had done and all that I had accomplished at my school and on my team. Field hockey has and always will be a part of my journey and it has played a major role in the person I have become today.”

 Mackenzie Fillion | Dean | Field Hockey/Women's Lacrosse

 Major: Biology, Minor: Psychology

 Fillion graduated from Dean College majoring in Biology with a Minor in Psychology, finishing with a 3.97 GPA. As a dual sport student-athlete, she won her field hockey team's coach award twice, won the team's Field Hockey MVP, once with Lacrosse, and was a member of the GNAC All-Sportsmanship Team. Fillion ranked 11th in the nation with 10.11 saves per game, led the conference in 2023 with 182 saves, and holds the most saves in program history with 436. The Bulldog graduate holds several academic accomplishments. These include the Arthur W. Peirce Prize, three-time GNAC All-Academic Team, two-time Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA) honor roll, CSC Academic All-District Team, four-time NFHCA Division III Scholar of Distinction, NFHCA All-Academic Squad, Golden Key Society, Chi Alpha Sigma, President's List, and Dean's List. Outside of her student-athlete life, she's been involved in the community as a peer mentor/tutor, Morgan's Message Ambassador, and won the Peter Hexter '66 Campus Involvement Award.

Personal Statement:

“My time at Dean College was transformative, allowing me to excel as a scholar, athlete, and leader. Each facet of my college experience has played a crucial part in shaping who I am and has empowered me to make a positive impact in the world.

As a scholar, I maintained a 3.97 GPA, achieved recognition on the President's List, and graduated Summa Cum Laude. I embraced the challenges of honors courses and was actively involved in scholarly communities, such as Chi Alpha Sigma and Golden Key International Honor Society. My dedication to learning extended beyond the classroom as a peer mentor and tutor, as I had the privilege of advising and supporting students in their academic journey. These experiences reinforced my belief in the power of education to change lives and honed my skills in communication, organization, and empathy.

Athletics played an important role in my college experience, despite sports not being a part of my initial long-term aspirations. Encouraged by my parents to pick up a sport in high school, I developed a passion for field hockey. This passion blossomed at Dean, where I served as the captain of the Women's Field Hockey team my junior and senior seasons as well as for the Women's Lacrosse team my senior year. Being a student-athlete at a Division III institution like Dean allowed me to balance my academic and athletic pursuits, fostering a sense of discipline and resilience. The opportunity to play lacrosse, a new sport to me upon entering college, was particularly rewarding, which proved to myself and others that it is never too late to pick up something new and push yourself outside of your comfort zone.

Leadership roles on and off the field further shaped my college experience. As mentioned previously, I served as a peer mentor and peer tutor on campus where I was able to help guide students to have a successful and enjoyable college experience. Being named a captain for both of my sports was very important to me, as I was able to play a major part in guiding and supporting my teams through the stages of new program development, as well as collaborate with my coaches on different ways to challenge and increase competitiveness among teammates. As an ambassador for Morgan's Message, I advocated for mental health awareness in athletics, something that is extremely important to me. Additionally, I was able to assist at field hockey clinics at Dean which enabled me to mentor and guide younger athletes, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and perseverance.

My experience as a student-athlete at Dean has profoundly influenced my life and has taught me the value of hard work, resilience, and the importance of community. As a result of my experience, I plan to give back to the athletic community as I start my coaching journey as the Assistant Field Hockey Coach at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth this Fall, where I will assist student-athletes to have a positive, balanced, and empowering experience like I did.”

 Elise Paier| Elms | Women's Lacrosse

 Major: Nursing

 Paier graduated from Elms with a 4.0 GPA, majoring in Nursing. On the field, she was named to the GNAC's All-Sportsmanship Team twice in her career, was named to the GNAC Weekly Honor Roll this past season, and was Third Team All-Conference in the 2023 season. She broke the Elms single-game goal record with 11 in a 20-19 conference win (2024), received the Dr. Joachim Froehlich Award for academic and athletic excellence, made the 100 goal/point club, and was the Blazer of the Week this past season. Paier finished her lacrosse career with 123 goals and 42 assists for 165 points and collected 119 ground balls. Academically, the Elms graduate held various academic achievements including Dean's List, three highest academic achievement awards from her institution, was inducted into the following societies: Chi Alpha Sigma Honor Society, Kappa Gamma Pi Honor Society, Delta Epsilon Sigma Honor Society, and Sigma Theta Tau Honor Society, received the Nursing Academic Achievement Award, was named to the GNAC's All-Academic Team three times, and was the Valedictorian of the Class of 2024, graduating Summa Cum Laude. In the community, Elise was a member of Elms' SAAC, National Student Nurse Association, Student Government Association, Elms Lacrosse Clinic, Senior Week Committee, West Springfield Girls Lacrosse Program, participated in canned food drives, and assisted at the Flu Clinic.

Personal Statement:

“Scholastically, I pushed myself to achieve the best grades and was honored as the Valedictorian of my class. I accomplished this as a four year student-athlete and two year captain of the Women's Lacrosse team. During my senior year, I conducted an evidence-based practice project focused on reducing the development of mental health conditions in oncology nurses, and a specific vulnerable populations project on foster children in the local community. These both emphasized how I can enhance the lives of specific patients in need. In addition, I was able to complete my rigorous clinical requirements, which included two, 8-hour days a week working side by side with nurses and clinicians at various hospitals and organizations. My patients have always had a large impact on my personal growth. I chose nursing as a profession because of my desire to make a difference and the love I have for caring for others. I want to be the positive in someone's life, no matter how short the duration of our interaction is, which has always been my motivation to have an impact on the world.

Athletically, as a two year captain, I was able to help motivate my teammates to become better players on the field, as well as focus on their academics. During my senior year, we were faced with a significant challenge, as our season was almost lost due to a roster size that was not sustainable for competitive play. My fellow captain and I took on additional roles as recruiters, and scoured the campus for female students to come join our team. We were luckily able to recruit just enough players to have a season, many of which had never played the sport before but were willing to help us out. As a leader, I helped teach these new players how to play lacrosse, along with creating an environment of positivity and encouragement. Despite the odds being stacked against us, we finished 4th in the South Division, and made it to the Play-In Round of the GNAC Tournament. This accomplishment, along with the feeling of gratitude from each of my teammates was validation that I had a positive impact on them all, and the program as a whole.

I have held many leadership roles that have empowered me to have a positive impact on my communities. Coaching young women has been so fulfilling, as I am able to see their confidence in both their talent and within themselves grow. I try to empower young women that they can achieve anything they put their mind to, and I have exemplified that in both my academic and athletic achievements. Leadership roles on campus have also greatly influenced my life because I have learned the importance of holding myself and others accountable. Being a member of three organizations on campus, along with a student-athlete has not only taught me it is crucial to communicate with others, but that I am capable of having a positive impact on the lives of others around me.”

 Olivia Conti | Emmanuel | Softball

 Major: Psychology

 The 2021 GNAC Rookie of the Year graduated from Emmanuel College with a 3.156 GPA, majoring in Psychology. On the diamond, Conti made the All-Conference Team all four years of her career, making the First Team three out of the four years. The Emmanuel graduate wad also a member of the 2023 National Fastpitches Coaches Association (NFCA) Region 1 Player of the Year "Watch List" and finished on the NFCA's All-Region Second Team in the same year. Olivia finished first in a few statistical categories in the conference throughout her playing career. Olivia finished first in total bases and doubles her sophomore season and stole the most bases in the conference her junior season. In her junior and senior campaigns, Conti finished second in home runs in the GNAC. She finished her career as the program record holder in career home runs with 33. After her collegiate career, she played professionally last month in Italy.

Personal Statement:

“As I was committing to continue my athletic career after high school, it became one of the easiest decisions to choose to represent Emmanuel as a student and athlete. As easy as it was, it wasn’t always smooth sailing balancing the life of a student-athlete. The balance of early morning practices, late nights studying for exams, hitting PR’s in the weight room during pre-season, and getting equipped with public transportation for internship hours and community service obligations all came with the privilege of wearing an Emmanuel jersey while succeeding on the field and in the classroom. During my time at Emmanuel I was captain both my junior and senior year, awarded Rookie of the Year, breaking multiple records including the single season homerun record and total overall homerun record, while helping my team achieve their first ever GNAC championship and first NCAA win.

My goals during my time at Emmanuel helped me become the best possible version of myself in order to be what my teammates needed. I always had a team first mentality and I wanted to continue that within my college career. I am an individual that always strives to be better not only for my own personal growth but in order to be an asset for others. I not only worked to be better on the field but to become a better learner in the classroom by using office hours with professors and attending study sessions, earning some appearances on the Dean’s List.

Emmanuel not only helped me feel a part of a team and within a classroom, it also gave me a safe space to be the person I am. Being part of the LGBTQ+ community, the safety and comfort I felt at Emmanuel made my experience and my goals for success so much stronger. It allowed me to be a voice for other athletes within the community and an example for others to be proud and confident of who they are.

As all my successes were worked hard for, I couldn’t have made it to this point without my coaches and family who were supporting me from the very beginning. As a woman in sports, athletic competition after college are minimal, but as it continues to grow opportunities are presented to us. I was honored by the opportunity to play overseas in Italy this past June. I was picked from athletes all over the country for this opportunity, one I will forever be indebted to the sport for.

With a big thank you to Emmanuel and the sport that has stuck by me since I was little, I have found a way to give back to it as it has given back to me. I’m currently assisting future scholar athletes within a travel ball organization. It has allowed me to teach other girls within the sport what determination and hard work can help them achieve. All I have learned within my years will hopefully help make a small difference within the world of women’s sports.”

 Kaitlin Bedell | Lasell | Field Hockey & Women's Lacrosse

 Major: Communications

 Bedell graduated from Lasell University with a 3.903 GPA, majoring in Communcations. She was a dual-sport athlete for the Lasers, playing on both the Field Hockey and Women's Lacrosse teams. The Lasell graduate made four appearances on the GNAC's All-Sportsmanship Teams four times for both sports and she made the All-GNAC Team twice. In addition, she received the Female Torchbearer Award this past year. Academically, she was a member of the Dean's List, CSC Academic All-District team member, IWLCA Academic Honor Roll, and Summa Cum Laude Honors for her bachelor's degree. Outside of her student-athlete life, she was a member of Lasell's SAAC and was an editor for the institution's newspaper (1851 Chronicle). 

Personal Statement:

“During my time as a student-athlete at Lasell, I have learned the true meaning of community. Playing at the Division III level has enabled me to immerse myself in an environment filled with like-minded people who encourage me to strive for greatness both in the classroom and on the field. The Lasell community has shown me the importance of integrity, hard work, and kindness. 

I have spent four years during my undergraduate degree on both the lacrosse and field hockey teams at Lasell. These teams have helped me prioritize my academics and extracurriculars, encouraging me to put in effort off the field. I have been able to earn a spot on the Dean’s List each semester throughout my four years, and was selected 2023 IWLCA Academic Honor Roll select, and was also a 2023 CSC Academic All-District team member. As a result of my academic success, I graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in communications. Additionally, I was able to hold a leadership position in two clubs on campus as the president of the Student Athletic Advisory Committee and the Edior-in-Chief of our school newspaper, the 1851 Chronicle. 

While Lasell athletics has allowed me to devote myself to my academics, it has also allowed me to become the best version of myself within my athletic career. As a result of the people I have been surrounded by, I have been able to grow as an athlete earning recognition in each of my sports. I was named to the field hockey All-Sportsmanship team for the 2022 and 2023 seasons, as well as in lacrosse for the 2023, and 2024 seasons. Throughout my lacrosse career, I was named Second Team All Conference in my freshman year, First-Team All Conference in my sophomore year, and held a captain position for my senior season. These accomplishments could never have come to fruition if it weren’t for the amazing support system around me. 

During my time as a student-athlete, I have been able to understand what it means to collaborate with others and balance a busy schedule, which will set me up for success in my future endeavors. As I came to Lasell amidst a pandemic, it was not always easy. Like many other athletes, I experienced canceled seasons, postponed games, and online classes. The resilience of my teammates, classmates, coaches, and peers inspired me to create a life at Lasell that would have a lasting impact on my future, as well as the future of others. Being a member of the Lasell experience has taught me that the choices we make can shift the culture within a community. It has taught me that if we all strive for greatness together, we can leave behind a legacy that continues to grow. As I have watched the athletes around me within my school as well as other GNAC teams, I have truly come to understand what it means to be a part of something bigger than just yourself.”

 Hannah Shaner | Norwich | Women's Swimming & Diving

 Major: Criminal Justice

 Shaner graduated from Norwich with a degree in Criminal Justice. In the pool, she earned GNAC All-Conference Team twice and won four conference championship events in both individual and relay events. Shaner was also a Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) qualifier and scorer in 2023 and holds a Norwich record with her relay team in the 200 free relay. She received the Steve Looke Award and was recognized with The Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War distinction at Norwich's year-end Joint Service Awards. Outside the swimming pool, she was a Norwich University SAAC Treasurer, Hotel Company Executive Officer, Coast Guard Ensign Select, was the first full-year Coast Guard Auxiliary Unit leader, Center for Global Resilience and Security (Human Trafficking), and is currently at Sector Detroit as a command duty officier (CDO).

Personal Statement:

“Balancing the roles of a scholar, athlete, and leader in the Corps of Cadets and community has profoundly shaped my life and empowered me to positively impact the world and in the Coast Guard. Norwich University’s curriculum and structure have developed me to succeed in balancing those roles.

My academic pursuits have instilled a deep appreciation for knowledge and critical thinking. It instilled an understanding in the importance of keeping informed on global news and changes. Along with always continuing to pursue learning and expanding your knowledge.

My experience as an athlete at Norwich has significantly contributed to my personal development and leadership style. Swimming -a demanding sport- has taught me the value of hard work, resilience, and teamwork. The countless hours of training have strengthened my mental toughness and ability to stay focused under pressure. These qualities are directly transferable to the high-stakes environment of the Coast Guard.

Leading in the Corps of Cadets has been one of the most formative experiences while at Norwich. This role has provided me with numerous opportunities to develop and demonstrate leadership skills. I have learned to lead by example, inspire and motivate peers, and make difficult decisions with integrity and fairness. The structured and disciplined environment of the Corps has instilled a strong sense of duty, responsibility, and ethical conduct, aligning closely with the core values of the Coast Guard.

Collectively, these experiences through Norwich have equipped me with a well-rounded skill set and a strong character foundation. As a scholar, I bring critical thinking and a passion for continuous learning. As an athlete, I contribute resilience, teamwork, and mental toughness. As a leader in the Corps of Cadets and the community, I offer strategic planning, ethical decision-making, and a commitment to service. These attributes empower me to positively impact my time in the Coast Guard by leading with integrity, fostering collaboration, and addressing challenges with a well-informed and compassionate approach.”

 Lyric Grumblatt | Rivier | Women's Basketball

 Major: Biology

 The two-time Great Northeast Athletic Conference Player of the Year graduated from Rivier with a 3.64 GPA, majoring in Biology. Grumblatt holds an impressive resume on the court. This year alone, she held the following accolades: Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) Division III Senior All-Star Game participant, New England Women's Basketball Association (NEWBA) Senior All-Star Classic participant, D3Hoops.com Region 1 Second Team selection, NEWBA Second Team selection, NEWBA Player of the Week (2/13), NEWBA First Team five times, and the NEWBA Second Team (12/5), and GNAC Player of the Week four times. She won the GNAC Player/Rookie of the Year Awards in 2021-22 and participated on the 2022 Team USA Division III Women's Basketball Team in a Brazil tournament. Grumblatt became the program's leader in three-pointers made in a career (250),  and is the second all-time leading scorer (1840). Academically, she matched her resume off the court, making the conference's All-Academic Team three times and made the Dean's List at Rivier. Off the court and the classroom, the Rivier graduate was a SAAC Representative, Nashua Food Pantry Annual Road Race Worker, and led aspects of team building and facilitating conversations between Rivier athletes and administration.

Personal Statement:

“My journey as a student-athlete at Rivier University and competing in the GNAC has taught me much more than how to win and lose games and pass classes. Over these past four
years, I am grateful to say that I have been able to play a role in the rebrand of Rivier Athletics, women’s basketball in particular, and watch my University grow as a whole. When I came to
campus in 2020 fresh off of the pandemic, my goal was to change the culture of athletics and show the GNAC that Rivier is much more than a school for volleyball and nursing. This journey
has taught me how to be a leader in all aspects of my life, both on and off the court. I learned how to channel my emotions and passions for basketball so I could be the captain that my
teammates and peers needed- a relentless competitor, but also someone who listens to them and wants to be there for their individual needs. More specifically, I have learned empathy and its true definition, allowing me to form deeper connections with my team and community.

Academically, the biology program at Rivier has been rigorous and has shown me that I can flourish in an intense classroom setting. This has given me the confidence in myself to know that when I am ready to take my next steps and apply for PA school I will be ready for the intensity of the program. Being a biology major has also exposed me to a different side of the world that athletics cannot, such as nature and the effect humans have on the Earth. Not only have my last four years made me more interested in healthcare and nature, but it has also fostered my curiosity for the Earth and how we can make a more positive impact in our day-to-day lives.

Both my academic and athletic experiences have already shown their effects in my day-to-day life and the workplace, as these leadership skills and confidence in my academics have allowed me to succeed in my current role in the healthcare field and my ability to create meaningful relationships with patients and coworkers.

Along the way, I have been fortunate enough to play for the Division III USA team after my rookie season, win player of the year and rookie of the year in my first season, and also win player of the year again this past season. But, the accomplishment I am most proud of is the way I have seen Rivier Women’s Basketball blossom and become a top team that is taken more
seriously. Our program’s hard work and commitment have been contagious since our program is always seen supporting other teams on campus and at other events, causing a butterfly effect of success across the whole athletic department. Since I have one year left, I will continue to learn every day and hopefully leave Rivier with a GNAC title- the first in program history.”

 Angelica Hurley | Saint Joseph's (Maine) | Women's Basketball

 Major: Exercise Science/Sports Performance Specialist, Minor: Coaching

 Hurley graduated from Saint Joseph's (Maine) with a 3.54 GPA, majoring in Exercise Science with a concentration in Sports Performance Specialist and a minor in Coaching. The SJC graduate holds quite a few athletic accomplishments. These include: All-GNAC Teams (three), GNAC All-Tournament MVP (2024), GNAC Defensive Player of the Year (2023), two-time GNAC All-Tournament Team, GNAC All-Rookie Team (2022), won GNAC Rookie of the Week once (11/29/21), two-time GNAC Player of the Week, and six GNAC Honor Roll appearances. She also received the New England Women's Basketball Association (NEWBA) weekly first team, NEWBA Player of the week, NEWBA weekly second team and made the NEWBA Senior All-Star Game. Hurley also became a member of the 1,000 point club. Off the court, she graduated Cum Laude and was inducted into the Chi Alpha Sigma National College Athlete Honor Society. In addition, she was named to the Dean's List a few times, was a member of the CSC All District Academic Team this past season, and was a recipient of the GNAC's All-Academic Team twice. In the community, the SJC graduate was involved in the following: SJC Women's Basketball Team Camp, Leadership Academy, SAAC, Exercise Science Club, Strength & Conditioning Internship, Admitted Students Day Fair Table, and as a Alfond Center Front Desk Supervisor.

Personal Statement:

“My experiences have led me to be a strong individual who exemplifies the characteristics of a confident leader which will have a lasting impact on those around me. For years I struggled with mental health and could not seem to find my passion to pursue in college or even my love for basketball. These struggles have only led me to be stronger, grow as an individual, and allow me to have a lasting impact on those around me. My experiences as a two-time captain of my back-to-back championship team have led me to be that voice for others and most importantly, that role model for those who do not have the confidence to do so themselves or the ability to achieve higher. I recognized quickly that when I lacked confidence, so did everyone else around me. I put myself in others' shoes and would think, how does someone who scored 1,000 points in three full seasons along with two conference championships lack confidence? I knew that needed to change, not only for myself, but for my teammates around me. As I learned in and further applied from leadership academy, I am the lighthouse for my team. I am that person they rely on to bring energy, motivation, confidence, voice, encouragement, and so much more. Coming to this recognition, I took pride in it. I wanted and strived for nothing less than for me to be that role model and person that my teammates and peers could come to and count on.

I was given the opportunity to be a guest speaker to all the athletic staff where I discussed the importance of nutrition and my experiences with it. It was eye opening to many coaches and staff to hear it coming from an athlete directly. Seeing the impact I had on these coaches gave me the confidence to trust in my experiences and my knowledge and that I can relay this to others to have a lasting impact. I am now working in partnership to create a nutrition-performance station in the Alfond Center to work to limit low-energy availability amongst collegiate
athletes. Prior to this, an opportunity opened up for a supervisor role at my job at the time. Unlike the past, I had confidence in my knowledge and abilities to be able to succeed in this position, even on top of my other commitments. If this opportunity arose a year prior, I wouldn't have taken it. After applying and being offered the position, I confidently accepted. I quickly took on my responsibilities and began to go above and beyond to make sure I succeeded. I recognized that confidence is what allows me to thrive in my leadership roles within my sport,
academics, and work. At the end of my senior season, I was selected to play in the NEWBA Senior All-Star game. I was excited but still somehow nervous, questioning if I would perform well. I reminded myself that I was selected for a reason. I grew the confidence and recognition within myself about how far I had come and went out and performed really well. As I sat and reflected on this game and all the accomplishments that led me here, I realized, once again, that confidence is what brings me my biggest successes throughout my years. I have had many more experiences in addition to the ones mentioned here, that support my conclusion that confidence is key. Confidence is what drives me to be successful and what allows me to know that I have an impact on others and will be very successful in this world.”

 Riley Wasiuk | Simmons | Women's Soccer & Lacrosse

 Major: Physical Therapy

Wasiuk earned her physical therapy degree with a 3.66 GPA, while also competing as a two-sport athlete. In the classroom, she earned a spot on the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA) Academic Squad four times and was also a four-time GNAC Academic All-Conference selection. Wasiuk was also named to the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District Team three times in her career. A defensive force on the lacrosse field, she earned multiple All-GNAC selections and was named GNAC Defensive Player of the Year in 2023. She is the all time leader at Simmons in caused turnovers with 138, 49 of which came in her single-season record setting year in 2024, all-time ground balls with 176 for her career, 78 of them being from this past season which is also a single-season record, and received the Ali Kantor/Director of Athletics Award from Simmons in 2024. Wasiuk was also named to the IWLCA All-Region Second Team in both 2022 and 2023 and was selected to play in the 2024 IWLCA Senior All-Star Game. In the community, she was a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and volunteered in the Sharks and Minnows Day Camp.

Personal Statement:

“It is incredibly hard to believe that I will not be taking the field in a Simmons uniform anymore. Hard to believe I won't be listening to "Life is a Highway" with my teammates in the locker room before a soccer game. Hard to believe I won't be chanting "Sharks" around a pile of our sticks before taking the field for a lacrosse game. Although my time as a college athlete has come to an end, there are countless memories I have picked up along the way along with meaningful lessons I have learned that will stick with me for life.

Playing sports for as long as I can remember has given me a competitive nature where I am always looking for ways to succeed or perform better in the future. This attitude can be very useful when trying to win a game but it can also be helpful when moving forward in my fast approaching career as a physical therapist treating patients. After a drill in practice or a play during a game, it is easy to reflect on what you want to continue doing because it was successful as well as what improvements need to be made for a better performance next time around. Being able to reflect on positive and negative performances will be extremely important when trying to achieve the best outcomes for each and every patient. Along with self-reflection, sports has also taught me how to receive feedback from others and apply what they have told me into my game. Applying feedback from clinical instructors as well as from patients will help me to continue learning long after my time in the classroom is over and become the best physical therapist I am capable of.

It is always easy to celebrate your own accomplishments like scoring a goal or breaking a record, but there is much more to team sports than celebrating personal achievements. Team sports like soccer and lacrosse thrive on the "we over me" mindset where the success of your team is more important than the success of the individual. The team mindset can translate nicely into working as a physical therapist where you and your patient are working on a team together to achieve meaningful goals. Success on this team is more meaningful than winning a game because helping a patient succeed means improving their quality of life by managing their pain and giving them the ability to do what makes them happy.

Simmons Athletics has not only given me memories that I will cherish forever but has also helped me to build a healthy toolbox of skills that I can use to succeed in my future career while becoming the best possible version of myself.”

 Jordan Ouellette | University Of Saint Joseph (Conn.) | Women's Basketball

 Major: Sport Management and Promotion

 Ouellette graduated from the University of Saint Joseph (Conn.) with her degree in Sport Management and Promotion, finishing with a 3.84 GPA. On the court, she held a list of athletic accomplishments for the Blue Jays. She earned GNAC Player of the Week twice, New England Women's Basketball Association Team of the Week nine times, was
selected to the New England Women's Basketball Association Senior All Star Game, a three-time All-GNAC selectee, and a member of the D3hoops.com All-Region Team. The USJ graduate became the 10th player in program history to reach 1,000 career points, finishing her career sixth all-time with 1,257 points and finished fifth all-time in career rebounds with 653. This past season, Jordan won three USJ awards (2024 USJ Senior Scholar Athlete Award, 2024 USJ Most Valuable Athlete of the Year Award, and 2024 USJ Blue-Jay Senior Student Athlete Award). In the classroom, Ouellette was a member of the USJ honors program, received Dean's List multiple semesters, received the 2024 Wall Street Journal Student Achievement Award for Business Administration, graduated Chi Alpha Sigma and Magna Cum Laude, and was a two-time member of the College Sports Communicators Academic All-District Team 2024, which she was selected to advance to the national ballot. In the community, Ouellette volunteered at the Boys and Girls Club and coaches AAU Basketball.

Personal Statement:

“For as long as I can remember, I let my life be defined by the 32 minutes between tip-off and the final horn. I had measured my worth from the number of points; rebounds, and assists I had. The game that I had fallen in love with in second grade had quickly become the thing I had let control me.

That was until my first year at the University of Saint Joseph. I was eager to start my collegiate basketball career on a team of quite a few athletes that I had looked up to throughout my high school career. It was because of my new family and my new home I decided to start coaching.

My first season coaching is something that I will never forget. The fifth and sixth grade girls team changed my life and mindset as an athlete more than anything before. I was fortunate to be able to instill the power of hard work and dedication to something, while emphasizing the importance of commitment to themselves and their team. I taught my players that it is okay to dream big- and if the dreams do not scare you, to dream bigger. I coached them through times that taught them resilience and perseverance- that reminded them when you fall 9 times- you get up 10. I showed them that the wins and losses will never define them, but the way they handle adversity will. I watched the place between the endlines that shaped me, begin to shape these 11 girls into strong and confident young girls. But as the season ended, no record would ever compare to what they taught me.

Every time that I step onto the court in The Jim, it is because of these girls that I remember to have fun. I am reminded that at the end of the day it is just a game and the memories that are made on the court during games, at practices, and with my teammates will last longer than any statistics will. Throughout my coltegiate basketball career, I was dedicated to being the best teammate I can be, inspired by the fact that basketball really is just a game, but so much more than a game at the same time. Giving back to the future of the sport that has given me so much has truly been a life-changing opportunity.”

ABOUT THE GREAT NORTHEAST ATHLETIC CONFERENCE

The Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) is an NCAA Division III association made up of 16 member institutions and over 4000 student-athletes across the New England region. Founded in 1995, the GNAC annually sponsors and administers 22 championships, while balancing academic integrity, athletic opportunity and community involvement in an effort to enhance the student-athlete experience.

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