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McNamara Academic Center
for Student-Athletes
Office of Undergraduate Education
Each month, the McNamara Academic Center for Student-Athletes (MAC) will recognize one male and one female University of Minnesota student-athlete for their academic achievements. The winners are determined by a number of factors evaluated on a monthly basis. Including, but not limited to outstanding test/exam results, GPA improvements, superior modeling in study habits and skills, academic praise from instructors, and overall grade reports for a given semester.
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Alexandra Palmer of the Volleyball program is the Female Student-Athlete of the Month for March. As a Latin major, Alexandra spends countless hours on her studies and in preparation for the LSAT exam. As a junior in the classroom, she is already completing her senior project while also participating in various campus and community opportunities. Chelsie Schafer, Academic Counselor, nominated Alexandra. “Alexandra is the model student-athlete and team leader on and off the court. I couldn’t be more impressed with her maturity and approach to life as a Gopher student-athlete. She is taking full advantage of all resources offered by the MAC.” Alexandra’s Head Coach Hugh McCutcheon added, “Alexandra is a model student-athlete. She understands the magnitude of the opportunities she is afforded here and takes full advantage of them. She works hard, she competes, and she gets it done in the classroom but, most importantly, she is doing everything she can to represent herself and this institution to the best of her ability.” |
Jon Christenson of the Football program is the Male Student-Athlete of the Month for March. Since joining the Football program in the summer of 2011, Jon has been a standout student. His “can do” attitude has been contagious with his teammates, and he is regarded by his coaches as a positive role model for other student-athletes. Football Head Coach Jerry Kill said, “Jon is the type of person that you root for. In my mind, he is a difference maker. He gives you his best on and off the field.” Football Academic Counselor Shea’na Grigsby nominated Jon for the award and said, “Academically, Jonathan stands out amongst our student-athletes as consistently having one of the highest grade point averages on the team. Pursuing a B.S. in Biochemistry in the College of Biological Sciences, he understands what it means to use his time wisely. His goal of graduating in 3 ½ years has kept him striving to stay on track within his major even when it means taking a “heavier” load. You can often find Jonathan studying in the MAC quietly and having an upbeat attitude. He embodies what it means to be a student-athlete, competing not only athletically but academically at the highest level. “ |
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Becca Weiland of the Women’s Swimming and Diving program is the Female Student-Athlete of the Month for February. Becca has excelled in the classroom and was on the Big Ten championship relay team. In addition, Becca has set Big Ten and University of Minnesota records in the 100-fly. Chris Cords, Women’s Swimming and Diving Counselor, nominated Becca for the award. “Becca is a great student. She is constantly working hard and can be seen studying in the MAC almost every day even when she is not required to be here. On top of Becca's great academics, she is also a great athlete. She is a role model for the student-athlete experience.” Becca’s head coach, Terry Ganley Nieszner, also thought highly of her accomplishments. "Becca has an outstanding work ethic and a true love of competition. She is a team player and is extremely supportive of her teammates. It is rare that you will find Becca without a smile on her face. She is an outstanding Gopher student-athlete and one of the best in the Big Ten.” |
Michael Handel of the Baseball program has earned the honor of being named the Male Student-Athlete of the Month for February. Michael was nominated by his academic counselor, Alissa Allen. “Michael has made amazing strides this year in how he approaches his courses. He has found a major that is perfect for his skillset, and he is excelling in his coursework. He has utilized the resources available in the MAC and has done everything asked of him. His hard work has paid off in his grades and a newfound confidence in himself. It has been fun to watch his growth since his first year here at the University of Minnesota." |
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Erica Meyer of the Softball program earned the recognition of Female Student-Athlete of the Month for January. Erica is an excellent student and has earned a 4.0 GPA multiple semesters. In addition, she is actively involved in numerous community service endeavors through the M.A.G.I.C. program. Softball Academic Counselor, Chelsie Schafer said, “Erica is a hard worker and takes her academics very seriously. She motivates her teammates to do well, and they reciprocate by motivating her to perform well. It's a great situation for the softball team with so many students excelling in the classroom and challenging each other to perform at their very best.” Head Coach Jessica Allister is also impressed with Erica’s achievements in the classroom and in the community. “Erica is deserving of this award, and we are proud of her for receiving it! The academic opportunities available to student-athletes at the U are endless, and it is great to see our student-athletes taking advantage of all that the University has to offer.” |
Jack Hamburg of the Men’s Tennis program has been named the Male Student-Athlete of the Month for January. Jack worked extremely hard in the classroom this past fall, and his hard work paid off as he achieved a 4.0 GPA for the semester. Men’s Tennis Academic Counselor, Chris Cords, said, “Jack is dedicated to his education and determined to give his best at all times. I am very proud of Jack's work ethic and happy to see him do so well.” |
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Derek Toomey, a member of the Men’s Swimming and Diving program, is
the Male Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for December. Derek is majoring in kinesiology
(pre-physical therapy) and just posted his second consecutive 4.0 term GPA. In addition to his
academic accomplishments, Derek serves as a captain for the team and is a six-time NCAA All-American.
Academic Counselor, Chris Cords said, “Derek is an exceptional student and athlete. Derek
has had two consecutive semester of a 4.0 GPA, while working toward his goal of a future in physical
therapy. As a team captain, I am very proud of the leadership that I am seeing from him in the
classroom as well as in the pool.” Head Coach Kelly Kremer commented on Derek’s achievements: “Derek is what we all think of when student-athlete is said. He finds balance while striving for success in all facets of his life here at Minnesota, and it's this great work ethic that inspired our men to vote for Derek as one of their team captains this year, a very high honor for a Junior!” |
Allie Phillips, a member of the Women’s Soccer program, is the Female
Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for December. Allie is a senior biology (pre-vet) major and has several
semesters with a perfect 4.0 under her belt. Academic Counselor, Rachel McKessock said, “Allie has been
an outstanding student to work with over the last 3 1/2 years. She is pursuing a challenging major and career
field and has maintained a 4.0 nearly every semester. On top of a great soccer career, Allie has had an
amazing academic career. She is a team leader, and I'm excited to see what the future has in store for
her.” |
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Micaella Riche, a member of the Women’s Basketball program,
is the Female Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for November. Micaella has received
rave reviews from her professors and has performed well in her Kinesiology major. Academic
Counselor, Kelly Jean Brock said, “Micaella is a great example of someone who found their
passion and works very hard to succeed.” Professor Stacy Ingraham stated, “Micaella
Riche is simply one of the finest students we have had in our Kinesiology program. She
is taking advantage of her time here at the University. She is such a pleasure to have
in the classroom. She is a great model for a student-athlete here at the University of
Minnesota.” Coach Pam Borton also expressed excitement and pride in Micaella’s accomplishments. “I am very happy for Micaella. She has grown a lot as an individual over the past year. She has become more disciplined, responsible and has applied herself more, both on and off the court. She has been more accountable to herself and holds herself to a higher standard than those around her. This is a sign of growth and maturity, both on and off the court. This will pay dividends later in life after college.” |
| Viktor Stelter, a member of the Men’s Track & Field program, is
the Male Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for November. Track & Field Academic Counselor,
Alissa Allen, has been impressed with Viktor’s progress over the course of his first semester.
“Viktor takes his education very seriously and fully engages with all of his coursework. He
has consistently been ahead on his assignments and has a solid grasp of what needs to be
done to be successful as a student-athlete. He asks questions when needed and has been
exploring various degree paths that will best utilize his strengths in the future. He has
made a very smooth transition into the college environment, and I expect that he will do
greater things as he becomes even more comfortable.” Coach Lynden Reder has been equally impressed. “In these first few months, Viktor has shown that he is serious about achieving great things during his time here. Whether it is in the classroom or on the track, his outstanding work ethic and positive attitude give me great confidence that he'll do just that!” |
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Morgan Sickels, a member of the Women’s Cross Country and Track
and Field program, is the Female Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for October. Morgan
has worked hard to improve her academic performance and others have taken notice.
Academic Counselor, Rachel McKessock said, “Morgan has shown so much improvement over the
last year. She has really taken charge of her academic career and has shown what she is
capable of achieving. I am very proud of Morgan and her perseverance!” Morgan’s coaches have also been impressed with her work ethic. Coach Sarah Hesser said, “We are so excited for Morgan! It is great to see her really understanding what it takes to be a successful STUDENT-athlete this year. She has come so far in the last year and will continue to build on this success through the rest of her career!" Coach Gary Wilson was also excited for Morgan. “We are sooooo proud of what Morgan has accomplished. After a tough year last year, she has shown true grit. What a great story from a great kid!!!" |
| Connor Cosgrove, a member of the Football program, is the Male
Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for October. Connor has not let his diagnosis of
leukemia define him. Instead, he has faced cancer head on while pursuing his academic
interests and motivating those around him. In October, Connor inspired more than 60 other
student-athletes and staff to shave their heads in support of The St. Baldrick's Foundation.
Football Academic Counselor, Jacki Lienesch said, “Connor is an amazing young man that inspires people every day. In addition to excelling in the classroom, he is committed to giving back through his service to children. He does all of this with a smile on his face even through tough times.” Perhaps Coach Kill summed it up the best, "Connor is a tremendous young man and one I admire with all my heart! |
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Brett Pfarr, a member of the Wrestling program, is the Male
Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for September. His work ethic and academic performance
have impressed those around him. Wresting Academic Counselor, Alissa Allen said, “Brett has
done an amazing job in the first month of his academic career at the University of Minnesota.
He has done everything asked of him and performed well in his courses. He has a strong work
ethic and is a very pleasant individual to interact with during the week. I expect great
things from him in the future.” Head Wrestling Coach J Robinson was equally excited for Brett’s accomplishments. “We have been impressed with Brett and his discipline in the classroom and on the mat. His drive to be a successful student-athlete is impressive. He has been a great addition to this Gopher family." |
| Katherine Windsor, a member of the Rowing program, is the Female
Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for September. Katherine was one of the volunteers to
help plan this year’s Hope Day, a day of outreach and service to children impacted by cancer.
Anissa Lightner is in charge of Hope Day and has been very impressed by Katherine. “Katherine
is an outstanding role model for other student-athletes. She has a healthy and successful
approach to balancing her sport, academics and community involvement. I am very proud of
Katherine and her dedication to balance as a student-athlete. She has taken full advantage of
all the resources that athletics, the MAC, and the University campus have offered her.” Head Rowing Coach Wendy Davis said, “Katherine is the embodiment of the collegiate student-athlete. She brings tremendous focus and determination to each practice, while also doing everything she can to elevate the performance of her teammates. A natural extension of her commitment to excellence, Katherine has embraced outreach activities. She lives the saying ‘to whom much is given, much is expected.’ Katherine knows she has been given much as a student-athlete, which makes her very generous in allocating her time to give back to the community.” |
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Erik VanRooyen, a member of the Men’s Golf program, is the Male
Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for August. Erik chose to stay in Minnesota, rather
than return to South Africa, and take classes this summer in order to ensure he graduates
spring 2013. He had a great summer academically. Academic counselor for Men’s Golf, Chelsie
Schafer said, “Erik found great success in his classes this summer while traveling
throughout the US to compete in golf tournaments. He has demonstrated a great ability to
manage a heavy travel schedule while keeping a strong focus on his classes.” Head Men’s Golf Coach John Carlson was equally excited for Erik’s accomplishments. “This is a great honor for Erik. I am impressed with his academic success this summer.” |
| Dusti Russell, a member of the Women’s Gymnastics program, is
the Female Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for August. As a regular in the MAC,
Dusti worked very hard this summer to manage her course load. Chelsie Shafer, academic
counselor for Women’s Gymnastics said, “She had to take stats as a major requirement.
Math is not a favorite of hers, but she stuck to it and found success in the class. She
will be prepared for her research class because of her diligence this summer with stats.
Her advanced writing class went very well. Dusti is a strong writer and was able to
apply her strengths in writing with the class assignments. I am proud of her successes
this summer.” Head Women’s Gymnastics Coach Meg Stephenson said, “I am so proud of Dusti! She has really matured and learned how to take advantage of the MAC resources. She had tough classes this summer and kept her priorities in order to do well in all of them.” |
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Rachel Banham, a member of the Women’s Basketball program, is
the Female Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for July. Rachel’s accomplishments
on the court are numerous, including being named Big Ten Freshman of the Year. This
summer, Rachel set a personal academic goal of earning a 4.0 GPA. With the first
half of the summer grades in, she is one step closer to accomplishing her goal. “Rachel
has worked hard every day this summer, spending extra time in the MAC to earn her 4.0. It
has been wonderful to have her around, and other student-athletes recognize her commitment
to academics,” said academic counselor for Women’s Basketball, Kelly Jean Brock. Head Women’s Basketball Coach Pam Borton shared, “I couldn't be more proud of Rachel. She knows exactly what I mean! Her focus this summer was to do well in school and to learn the importance of being great, both on and off the court. She is an All-American on the court and being successful off the court is what we've talked about in being a leader for our program. Congrats Rachel!” |
| Chris Hawthorne, a member of the Football program, is the Male
Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for July. In addition to having one of the highest
GPAs on the team, Chris volunteers countless hours in the community. Chris was an
integral part of the Gopher Global trip to Chicago, Illinois where a number of colleges
and universities joined together to help inner city schools paint and fix up their
buildings and facilities. “Chris has embodied the true meaning of being a Golden Gopher.
He not only focuses on what can make him a better student and athlete, but takes the
time to teach everyone else around him what it means to be a part of a family,” said
Shea’na Grigsby, academic counselor for Football. Head Football Coach Jerry Kill stated, "I am excited for Chris. He is a well-rounded student-athlete. Not only does he take his studies seriously, but he is also very active in community service. He is a great example of a student-athlete.” |
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Natallia (“Natasha”) Pintusava, a member of the Women’s Tennis
program, is the Female Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for June. Natasha has
excelled in the classroom and been an active participant in community activities.
According to the Women’s Tennis academic counselor Chris Cords, "Natasha is a tireless
worker in the classroom. She spends countless hours on her studies on top of the countless
hours she gives to her sport. Natasha is majoring in Chemical Engineering and has averaged
over 16 credits a semester since she has been here. On top of that, she is taking a full
course load this summer and has done an amazing job. I am very proud of her hard work and
her academic and athletic achievements.” Head Women’s Tennis Coach Tyler Thomson echoes these sentiments. "Natasha is a tremendously dedicated student-athlete. She takes no shortcuts with her studies, and is always seeking avenues for self-improvement. She is very deserving of this award." |
| Nick Bjugstad has added an academic award to his growing list of
athletic awards, including All-WCHA First Team and National Player of the Month (November).
Nick, a member of the Men’s Hockey program, is the Male Student-Athlete of the Month
honoree for June. Chris Cords, academic counselor for Men’s Hockey, applauds Nick’s academic
success. “Nick has been an extremely hard worker in the classroom. He had a very good spring
semester and that has carried over to summer classes. It is obvious that Nick cares about his
education, and it is fun to see him work so hard. He is the perfect recipient for this
award.” Head Men’s Hockey Coach Don Lucia said, "Nick is very deserving of being named Student-Athlete of the Month. It is rewarding to see that he is not only working hard in the weight room during the summer, but also in the classroom. I would expect nothing less from Nick." |
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Erica Meyer, a member of the Women’s Softball program, is the Female
Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for May. Chelsie Schafer, Academic Counselor for the
Softball team, expresses her appreciation for Erica’s excellent academic year. “Erica is an
outstanding student and model student-athlete. She studies hard, spends a lot of time at the
MAC, and maintains a level of focus that can sometimes be difficult for first-year students.
I am proud of her efforts and impressed by her maturity.” Head Coach Jess Allister echoes Chelsie’s statement. “Erica is a tremendous student-athlete. Her commitment to excellence and her competitive nature are second to none. We are proud to have Erica as a part of the Gopher Softball family.” |
| Ryan Grant, a member of the Football program, is the Male Student-Athlete
of the Month honoree for May. Jacki Lienesch, Academic Counselor for the Football team,
reflects on Ryan’s past semester. “Ryan is a model student-athlete and is taking advantage
of every opportunity available. After graduating in December 2011 with a degree in Biological
Sciences, Ryan was accepted in to the M.Ed. program in Applied Kinesiology. In the spring 2012
semester, Ryan enrolled in 13 credits of graduate level coursework and earned s 3.923. He is a
great example of what hard work and commitment can lead to. I am very proud of Ryan's
accomplishments as a student at the University of Minnesota.” Head Football Coach Jerry Kill shares Jacki’s sentiments. “Ryan is a fine example of what a student-athlete should be. I’m very proud of Ryan and all he has accomplished!” |
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Carmen Laguna, a member of the Women's Golf program, is the Female
Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for April. "I have been very impressed with how
Carmen Laguna has been able to balance school and golf. She is very dedicated to her
studies and is a very hard worker on and off the course. This honor is well deserved.
I am proud to be her coach and mentor." Head Women's Golf Coach - Michele Redman Chelsie Schafer, Academic Counselor for the Women's Golf team, shares Coach Redman's enthusiasm. "Carmen is an outstanding student and is diligent in her approach to balance both school and golf. Carmen maintains a level of focus that can sometimes be difficult for first-year students. I am proud of her efforts and impressed by her maturity." |
| Luke McAvoy, a member of the Football program, is the Male Student-Athlete
of the Month honoree for April. "I'm very proud of Luke! He gets what he deserves because he
works hard at everything he does." Head Football Coach - Jerry Kill Shea'na Grigsby, Academic Counselor for Football, has been impressed by Luke McAvoy's presence and was excited to nominate him for Student-Athlete of the Month. "Since Luke's arrival, he has been a great addition to the football program, going above and beyond what is expected of him. This is not only shown in his actions on the field, but this work ethic has carried over into his academics and drive to be the best peer, teammate and humanitarian he can be. Academically, he has been honored as having one of the highest term grade point averages on the team and was named a 'Gold Academic Honor' athlete. His debut was as one of 16 football student-athletes with a top GPA on the team." |
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Ben Meyer, a member of the Baseball program, is the Male
Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for February. Baseball Academic Counselor, Alissa Allen,
reflects on Ben’s young academic career: “Ben did an amazing job in his first semester at the
University of Minnesota. He took advantage of the resources available to him and put in the
time necessary to achieve academic success. He received a 4.0 GPA as a result of his efforts
and has given himself a strong foundation for the future. His strong performance has continued,
and he is on track for another stellar semester. I expect his success will continue as he
progresses through his business coursework here at the University.” "Ben takes the same calm, confident, focused approach in the classroom as he does on the baseball field and it becomes the formula for his success as a student-athlete. He is a very dedicated and responsible young man who leads more by his actions than his words." – Todd Oakes, Pitching Coach |
| Olivia Bagnall, a member of the Soccer program, is the Female Student-Athlete
of the Month honoree for February. Rachel McKessock, Soccer Academic Counselor, speaks about Olivia’s
academic progress through the years: “As a junior, I have seen Olivia grow as both a student and an
athlete. Olivia remains determined and hard working with her academics every semester. She increases
the amount of study time she puts in at the MAC each semester to ensure she gets all of her work done.
She is self-motivated and knows what she needs to do in order to be successful. When she isn’t doing
those things, she is the first to own up to it and make the changes necessary in order for her to reach
her goals.” "Olivia is a role model and leader for our soccer team and for the University of Minnesota athletic department. She is committed to achieving excellence in every area of her life, and she inspires us all with her work ethic, accountability and personal responsibility. No one outworks Olivia. She is an example that all our athletes should follow." – Head Soccer Coach Mikki Denney-Wright |
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Troy Stoudermire, a member of the Football program, is the Male
Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for January. Senior Troy Stoudermire is on pace to
graduate this summer and with a 4.0 GPA last semester, he is in great shape to succeed.
Not only did Troy maintain excellent grades in his courses, but he also volunteered with
ACES (Athletes Committed to Educating Students). Director of Football Academic Advising,
Jacki Lienesch, says, “Troy has made great strides this past year and is on track to
graduate with his degree in Youth Studies this coming summer. In addition to excelling in
the classroom, he has served as a positive role model impacting many children and young men
and women through his youth studies internship and volunteer experiences.” Coach Jerry Kill has also been impressed with Troy’s recent academic success. "Troy has made great strides in his life over the last year, and this is proof of what hard work and commitment can do for you. I am very proud of him and what he has accomplished. I am looking forward to seeing more great achievements from Troy.” |
| Blake Zeiger, a member of the Women’s Swimming & Diving program, is the
Female Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for January. Kim Halgren, Coordinator of Learning
Services, has been very impressed by women’s swimmer Blake Zeiger in her young academic career
here at the University of Minnesota as has Blake’s mentor-tutor. “Some of my most rewarding
experiences as a mentor-tutor have been with Blake Zeiger. Blake works very hard; she is always
far ahead in her courses. She takes setbacks in stride and works even harder to find ways to
improve her study habits so she can more efficiently conquer concepts.” Coach Terry Nieszner comments, "Blake has made a great transition to Division I. She is a valuable member of our team, and I am confident her performances in the Championship season will surprise a lot of fans! We are pleased with both her athletic and academic achievements so far." Academic Counselor for Women’s Swimming, Chris Cords, also noted how hard Blake has worked during her first semester. “Blake is a very diligent and dedicated student. I expect each semester to get better and better.” |
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Kayla Hirt, a member of the Women's Basketball program, is the Female
Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for December. Academic Counselor for Women’s Basketball,
Kelly Brock, describes Kayla’s academic career so far: “Kayla has had one of the most
difficult fall semesters. As the season began, she tore her ACL for a second time and had
surgery to repair her knee at the end of November. She had to miss school to recover from
surgery and unfortunately, had a set back and missed another week of school. This wouldn't
stop Kayla though. She endured, communicated with her professors through email and kept them
up-to-date. She worked on her school work even while she couldn't get out of bed. Her hard
work, especially at the end, helped her finish strongly in the classroom and earn a great
GPA!” Head Coach Pam Borton states, "We are very proud of Kayla, and she is very deserving of this honor. After Kayla tore her ACL in the fall, it would have been easy for an individual not to do well in the classroom because of her passion for basketball. I've learned a lot about Kayla in how she has handled adversity in her life. She embraces it head on, and it has made her a better and stronger person. Kayla exemplifies excellence in all aspects of her life. We can't wait for her to bring this excellence back on the court next season." |
| Seth Ambroz, a member of the Men's Hockey program, is the Male Student-Athlete
of the Month honoree for December. Head Men’s Hockey Coach Don Lucia reflects on Seth’s performance
this past fall: “Based on how hard Seth works in practice, it is gratifying to also see him do so
well academically. I am proud to see Seth rewarded for his hard work both on and off the ice.” Seth’s Academic Counselor, Chris Cords, echoes this sentiment. “Seth had a good first semester. He was always early for mentor tutoring, put in extra hours, and received a great GPA for the fall semester. I was extremely impressed with Seth's work ethic and how he behaved himself in the learning center and in the classroom. I felt that he represented the University of Minnesota and the Men's Hockey program very well this first semester.” |
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John Scallon, a member of the Men’s Gymnastics program, is the Male
Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for November. Academic Counselor for Men’s Gymnastics
reflects on John’s academic career so far; “John has made tremendous strides in and out
of the classroom in his sophomore year. He takes advantage of the academic resources
available both in the MAC and on campus. He has found an organizational system that works
for him and has become more confident in the academic setting. He is engaged in the learning
process and it consistently shows.” Head Coach Mike Burns states, “John has had a successful academic career thus far thanks to his hard work and the support he receives from the McNamara Academic Center and our academic counselor Alissa Allen. John has surpassed our expectations. What a great honor this is for John!” |
| Kari Dorle, a member of the Softball program, is the
Female Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for November. Head Softball Coach Jessica Allister
states, “We could not be more proud of Kari. Nothing comes without hard work. It is great to
see that Kari’s diligence in the classroom is paying off.” Kari’s Academic Counselor, Chelsie Schafer, echoes Coach Allister’s sentiment. “All in all, Kari is doing a fantastic job preparing for tests. She is doing everything right and continues with her plan of action. She is very motivated to do well!” |
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Shady Salamon, a member of the Football program, is the Male
Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for October. Assistant Director/Director of Football
Academics Jacki Lienesch states, “Shady has done a wonderful job of utilizing all the different
resources available to him to ensure his continued academic success. His leadership in the
classroom makes him well deserving of this honor.” He meets with professors, T.A.’s, subject
tutors and even sets up study groups with other teachers and teammates so that they can do
better in class. He is aware of his pending graduation and is networking so that he is prepared
to get a job this spring. Head Football Coach Jerry Kill states, "We are very proud of Shady's accomplishments. I appreciate his dedication and commitment to academics." |
| Juliane Daugaard, a member of the Volleyball program, is the
Female Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for October. Interim Head Volleyball Coach Laura Bush
reflects on Juliane’s academic performance in her young career; “Juliane is as conscientious of
her learning curve in the volleyball gym as well as in the classroom. Since she does not travel
with the team this season, she utilizes her time at home studying, getting into the weight room,
as well as practice volleyball on her own. Her diligence in being an exceptional student and an
exceptional volleyball player is exemplary.” Chelsie Schafer, Juliane’s Academic Counselor, nominated her due to all of her exceptional Mentor Tutor and Subject Tutor Meetings. “Juliane is from Denmark and the language barrier is a big concern, but she keeps powering through and really tries to focus and succeed.” |
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Andre Hollins, a member of the Men's Basketball program, is the Male
Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for September. Freshman Andre Hollins has started off
his academic pursuits at the University of Minnesota very strong. Kelly Brock states, “Andre is an outstanding young man. He’s off to a great start this semester and he’s already completed is advising appointment with adviser in the Carlson School of Management. He also earned a perfect 4.0 GPA this past summer!” Head Men’s Basketball Coach Tubby Smith also reflects on the impact Andre has had on the team already in his young career; “Andre is demonstrating with his consistent energy and effort that he is serious about being the best student-athlete he can be. His commitment to completing and accepting challenges shows that he has many of the characteristics needed to be successful. I am thrilled that Andre has been selected as the student-athlete of the month. Congratulations to him, and I know he will earn the honor again!” |
| Baylee Gillanders, a member of the Women's Hockey program, is the
Female Student-Athlete of the Month honoree for September. Hockey Coach speaks of Baylee
Gillander’s commitment thus far; “Baylee is a wonderful person and player who has her
priorities in the right order. We are very proud of Baylee.” Baylee’s Academic Counselor Rachel McKessock echoes Coach Frost’s sentiment; “Baylee is already working toward a challenging major in Speech Language and Hearing Sciences, has been on top of all tutoring, courses and is giving a real thoughtful effort to what she wants to do with her life after college. Baylee has started off the year on a great note and I know she will continue to do well!” |
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