Student Athlete

The Bestick twins reflect on their time as student-athletes at George �鶹��Ƶ

Katarina Benson — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 17:30:56 +0000

The Bestick twins reflect on their time as student-athletes at George �鶹��Ƶ Katarina Benson Fri, 03/27/2026 - 13:30

Life is filled with unexpected twists and turns. In the case of �鶹��Ƶ lacrosse twins Kaitlyn and Regan Bestick, that road has split and come back together several times. Now, as the Fredericksburg, Virginia, natives compete in their final season together and prepare to separate again, they reflect on their time in the �鶹��Ƶ Nation.

Regan has been a goalkeeper for the Patriots women’s lacrosse team for the past three years after transferring from Saint Joseph’s after her freshman season. She’s started every game this season and has recorded 96 saves so far. Kaitlyn has played all four years at George �鶹��Ƶ and is currently second on the team in goals scored with 26. Both of them have created a positive impact on the team, which isn’t surprising considering the number of athletes in their family.

Regan and Kaitlyn Bestick. Photo by �鶹��Ƶ Athletics

Sports and lacrosse have played an integral role in the lives of the Bestick twins. The product of two collegiate athletes—their mom was an All-American lacrosse player at James Madison, and their dad played baseball at William & Mary—they said televised sports were a big part of their household growing up.

“Because we’re a sports family, we just watch a lot of games,” said Kaitlyn. “Our roommates will tell you the same thing: We always have some form of sports on.”

From childhood, their parents instilled a sense of competitiveness among the siblings, and they said they will always be grateful for that. “Our parents really prioritized us not only competing at the highest level but also getting the best education possible. And they instilled in us that work ethic to be able to succeed both academically and athletically,” said Regan. 

The close bond between the sisters helps them give each other constructive feedback that translates into better performances. “Being in opposite positions really helps. When we're training in the off season, it helps to have someone who can shoot on me and tell me what I'm doing wrong, or what I'm giving up, and vice versa," said Regan. “It really helps to have that second pair of eyes. Inherently, I feel like we make each other better every day." 

Despite spending their first years apart, they still collided on the field during that first season. On March 11, 2023, Regan made her debut for Saint Joseph's, against her twin sister, who was starting for George �鶹��Ƶ. Regan recalls feeling overwhelmed with emotion, as it was the first time she competed against her sister. However, when Regan came on, she knew that she had to focus on giving her best performance and ensuring the victory. The Hawks came away with the win, and Regan contributed to the clean sheet.

The sisters grew up playing together. Photo by �鶹��Ƶ Athletics

Kaitlyn played a key role in bringing Regan to �鶹��Ƶ. Kara Mupo, the head coach for the women’s lacrosse team, saw the sisters play at the club level in high school and was impressed by their skills and tenacity.

"I was definitely a big part of [Regan’s] recruiting process coming to �鶹��Ƶ,” said Kaitlyn. “We wanted her from day one. And [Coach Mupo] was adamant about getting an inside scoop about her process, because she's a very talented player.”

“I knew that Kara was an amazing coach,” said Regan. “[George] �鶹��Ƶ was in my top two schools my first time around recruiting as a high schooler. I knew that it was a place that I really liked and really enjoyed the coaching style and coaching aspects that Kara brings to the table.”

Regan also liked the idea of being closer to home. “I really enjoyed the fact that my parents got to come to every one of Kaitlyn's games,” she said, noting that they couldn’t always make it to Philadelphia for hers.

Regan brought valuable experience to George �鶹��Ƶ. “Her being here just makes us so much better on all facets,” said Kaitlyn. “Not only does she lock down her cage on the field, but she's also a great role model for our underclassmen. She's added so much value to our team.”  

Aside from being among the top scorers, Kaitlyn also has additional leadership responsibilities as she is the president of the Student-Athletes Advisory Council (SAAC) and serves as the voice for student-athletes.

Both sisters also have set out clear career paths. Regan has known since high school that she wanted to become a veterinarian. Majoring in biology with a minor in chemistry, she is already a certified veterinary assistant. After graduation, she’ll begin her four-year journey in veterinary school.

Kaitlyn, who completed her bachelor’s in government and international politics last year, is currently working on her master's in political science through the Bachelor’s/Accelerated Masters (BAM) Program at George �鶹��Ƶ. She will be attending law school in the fall.

Kaitlyn was introduced to law at a young age by her dad, who is a police officer for Fairfax County. “I came into �鶹��Ƶ knowing I wanted to be an attorney. But personally, I want to do more civil or government work,” said Kaitlyn. “I'm also interested in sports law. I don't really want to be in a courtroom too much, but rather more behind the scenes.”

She interned last summer with the Federal Reserve Board of Governors and worked with their procurement division.  

Both are really excited about their graduate studies. "This will be the first time we're only students—not student-athletes, so I don't know how we're going to handle just having schoolwork to do and no practice or anything taking up half our day," said Kaitlyn.

This also means that the sisters will once again be away from each other, but they have already prepared for this situation.

“We talk way too much, so obviously there will be a lot of FaceTime calls and texts,” said Kaitlyn.

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Tip Sheet: How proper nutrition fuels hoop dreams during March Madness

Taylor Thomas — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 13:56:15 +0000

Tip Sheet: How proper nutrition fuels hoop dreams during March Madness Taylor Thomas Thu, 03/12/2026 - 09:56

Sports enthusiasts are gearing up for the largest college basketball tournament in the nation: March Madness. As fans finalize their brackets and get gameday snacks ready, athletes are also fueling for prolonged and fast-paced competition. Registered sports dietitian Allison McKay and �鶹��Ƶ Athletics sports dietitian Quinten Patterson, who is also the preceptor for dietetics students completing supervised practice hours in the Graduate Program in Nutrition and Dietetics, explain what keeps college basketball players energized through the final buzzer.

Allison McKay (left) and Quentin Patterson (right) share professional perspective into collegiate athletes' nutritional needs. Photo by Mary Cunningham.

For fans’ March Madness watch party menus, Patterson and McKay recommend a balanced blend of carbs, proteins, healthy fats, and plant-based foods. Nuts, fruits, vegetables, and chips and dips are great snacks to help you cheer your favorite team through to the finals.

But how can student athletes fuel their Sweet 16 dreams? Learn more from Patterson and McKay about how nutrition impacts college athletes:

How does nutrition support student-athletes' demanding schedules?

Patterson: Between classes, travel, training, and competition, student-athletes’ busy schedules burn a lot of calories, up to over 4,000 calories in a single day. Enjoying nutrient-dense snacks sourced from whole foods helps give our athletes the bump in energy to get through their busy day. Nuts, fruits, yogurt, and granola are a few examples of whole foods that are delicious, nutrient-dense, and easy to carry around.

What role do nutrition and rest play during long tournaments like March Madness?

McKay: Athletes experience both mental and physical stress during prolonged competitions and tournaments, so sleep, rest, and proper nutrition are critical elements. Not having enough energy during these times can increase possible irritability, anxiety, and can reduce concentration, which can increase the risk of injury. Recovery and nutrition can support resilience and help athletes perform their best in repeated efforts, like March Madness.

What do college basketball players eat on game day to maximize energy and focus?

Patterson: Game day meals have three main components: High-quality proteins, complex carbohydrates, and nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables. Players start their game day with a balanced breakfast in the morning and a pre-game meal a couple of hours before game time. It’s important to avoid fried or other high-fat foods in the hours before tip-off. These foods take a while to digest and can slow down our players on the court.

How can athletes reduce the stress of high-stakes tournaments and games?

McKay: Ensuring adequate fueling, especially carbohydrates, can help reduce stress during heavy training or competitions. Micronutrients such as magnesium, iron (if deficient), zinc, Vitamin D, Vitamin C, and B vitamins can support the muscles and nervous system. Omega-3 fatty acids, which can be found in foods like salmon and chia seeds, can reduce inflammation and support joint health. Student athletes can require up to two or three times more protein than the average person. Most people need between 0.36 - 0.45 grams of protein per pound of body weight. However, collegiate athletes typically need almost double that—between 0.54 - 0.91 grams of protein per pound of body weight.

How do nutrition needs change when teams play multiple games in a short time span, like the March Madness Tournament?

Patterson: Nutrient timing is important to ensure athletes are ready to go for the next round. Players’ bodies respond better to ingested carbohydrates and proteins in the couple of hours after the game to shuttle those nutrients to their proper places. Post-game meals look similar to pre-game meals in that they are full of high-quality proteins and complex carbohydrates. Healthy fats are a great inclusion here to top off energy stores.

What foods help athletes stay focused during high-pressure games?

McKay: Mental acuity in athletes starts with stable blood sugar levels. Carbohydrates are critical for focus and quick decision-making, as the brain relies heavily on glucose for fuel. Before a high-pressure game, eating easily digestible carbohydrates, like oatmeal, rice, pasta, toast, a bagel, yogurt, or even a smoothie can help to ensure a constant energy source for the competition. During a prolonged event, the athlete may need to have additional carbohydrates from sports drinks or gels to sustain energy levels and prevent fatigue.

How important is hydration during March Madness?

McKay: Ensuring proper hydration is highly important. Even a mild level of dehydration can negatively impact concentration and performance. Starting the game fully hydrated is necessary, and replenishing fluid and electrolytes lost through sweat can make all the difference.

MEDIA INQUIRIES: For reporters who wish to speak to Allison McKay or Quentin Patterson about collegiate athlete nutrition or sports dietetics, please email media contact Michelle Thompson at mthomp7@gmu.edu.

Allison McKay, MS, RDN, CSSD, has been a registered dietitian for more than 25 years and has experience providing nutrition education and Medical Nutrition Therapy in hospitals, long-term care facilities and has been a research dietitian in several longitudinal research studies. Prior to working at George �鶹��Ƶ, she worked at the Cancer Research Center at the University of Hawaii and was a consulting dietitian with Dietitian Consulting Services LLC in Seattle, Washington. She holds an MS in Exercise, Fitness and Health Promotion from �鶹��Ƶ and is a Board-Certified Sports Dietitian.

Quinten Patterson is the George �鶹��Ƶ Athletics Sports Dietitian. Patterson's experience in sports nutrition includes serving as a Seasonal Sports Dietitian for the Tampa Bay Rays Triple-A affiliate, the Durham Bulls, during the 2024 season, as well as assisting NCAA athletes prepare for the NFL combine with EXOS Sports Performance Center in Plano, Texas. Prior to joining George �鶹��Ƶ, Patterson was a registered dietitian at VIDA Fitness, where he provided nutrition counseling and support to clients as part of the organization's health and wellness initiatives. Patterson joined George �鶹��Ƶ Athletics in February 2026 and will serve as preceptor for dietetics students completing supervised practice hours in the Graduate Program in Nutrition and Dietetics.

Patterson previously served as a Renal Dietitian with DaVita, focusing on patient-centered care in a dialysis clinic environment. He also worked as a Clinical Dietitian with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, supporting psychiatric patient care. Early in his career, Patterson held a role at UT Southwestern Medical Center as a Research Assistant, contributing to biomedical and clinical research efforts in developmental nephrology.

�鶹��Ƶ �鶹��Ƶ

�鶹��Ƶ is Virginia’s largest public research university. Located near Washington, D.C., �鶹��Ƶ enrolls more than 40,000 students from 130 countries and all 50 states. �鶹��Ƶ has grown rapidly over the past half-century and is recognized for its innovation and entrepreneurship, remarkable diversity, and commitment to accessibility. In 2023, the university launched �鶹��Ƶ Now: Power the Possible, a one-billion-dollar comprehensive campaign to support student success, research, innovation, community, and stewardship. Learn more at gmu.edu.

�鶹��Ƶ College of Public Health at �鶹��Ƶ

The College of Public Health at �鶹��Ƶ is the first College of Public Health in Virginia and a national leader in inclusive, interprofessional, public health research, education, and practice. The college comprises public health disciplines, health administration and policy, informatics, nursing, nutrition, and social work. The college offers a distinct array of degrees to support research and training of professionals dedicated to ensuring health and well-being for all. The college’s transdisciplinary research seeks to understand the many factors that influence the public’s health and well-being throughout the lifespan.

In This Story

Allison McKay MS, RD, CSSD

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Nutrition and March Madness for athletes and fans

Learn more about how College of Public Health and the Athletics Department are partnering to support George �鶹��Ƶ athletes.

Key Takeaways:

Sports dietitians Quentin Patterson and Allison McKay answer what college basketball players need to succeed in strenuous competitions like the March Madness tournament.
Collegiate athletes require a balanced and energy-dense diet, as well as adequate rest and hydration, to support them through schedules packed with classes, travel, training, and competition.
Foods like nuts, fruits, yogurt, oatmeal, rice, pasta, toast, and smoothies help athletes maintain the energy needed to compete in back-to-back competitions.

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Electrical engineer powers back to the pool after a rocky start

Nathan Kahl — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:49:29 +0000

Electrical engineer powers back to the pool after a rocky start Nathan Kahl Thu, 03/12/2026 - 07:49

When Ryan Serbia arrived at �鶹��Ƶ, he had already done something most students never consider, finishing high school at 16. Arriving on campus on a swimming scholarship, the electrical engineering major was ready to get his swimming career started, but two weeks after coming to Fairfax, a scooter had other ideas for him. He hit a patch of gravel, went down, and broke his right arm, requiring surgery. “I tell people to stay away from those things,” he said sardonically.

Ryan Serbia. Photo by Raphael Suanes/George �鶹��Ƶ Athletics

His parents had to drive 1,500 miles from his hometown of Lawton, Oklahoma, to sign the paperwork authorizing medical attention, since he was still a minor. For a freshman recruited to swim Division I, it was a tough start. He redshirted the entire season, keeping his scholarship but watching meets from the pool deck. “It was a good experience being there,” he said. “But it stung. I wanted to be competing.”

Swimming has shaped much of his life, though it did not begin in the typical way. He grew up in a military family and switched to online homeschooling in sixth grade after moving from North Carolina to Oklahoma. The online program allowed him to advance quickly and after a placement test, he skipped ahead to eighth grade and then went back to public schools.

He started swimming at 11, later than many elite competitors. At first, he struggled; at his first tryout, coaches told him to come back a week later because he was too slow for the team. By the time he was 14, however, something shifted. At a state meet, he earned a qualifying time for a regional championship by one one hundredth of a second.

“That kind of started my journey,” he said. From there, his times began to drop. He switched club programs after disagreements about training and saw major improvements. By 16, he had earned Futures and Junior National cuts and was competing against swimmers several years older.

Serbia did not let a broken arm hold him back. Photo by Raphael Suanes/George �鶹��Ƶ Athletics

He chose George �鶹��Ƶ because the East Coast location appealed to him, along with the university’s strong engineering reputation and proximity to Washington, D.C. His father, now a systems engineer with Boeing after 20 years in the Army, encouraged him to look at schools with strong research connections.

He chose electrical engineering as his major, knowing it would be demanding alongside Division I athletics. “It’s probably the hardest thing I’ve ever done besides swimming,” he said. “But when it clicks, it’s really satisfying.”

During the season, his schedule includes early morning weightlifting, afternoon practices, classes, and study sessions. Managing time is the biggest challenge. “You get to the end of the day and it’s six o’clock, and that’s when you can study, but your body’s exhausted,” he said. Even so, he has earned a spot on the Provost’s Student-Athlete List with a GPA above 3.8.

Now healthy and competing, he has balance in his routine. Outside the pool and classroom, he appreciates the university’s walkable campus and the cooler Mid-Atlantic climate compared to Oklahoma’s heat.

Looking ahead, he is considering graduate study, possibly in quantum information or another research-intensive field. For now, he is focused on continuing to improve in the 200 breaststroke and building the foundation for both an engineering career and the next stage of competition.

For students considering the same path, his advice is simple: “Be ready to manage your time.”

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Four Schar School Student-Athletes Score Provost Awards—and Not for the First Time

Andrew J Schappert — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 21:35:57 +0000

Four Schar School Student-Athletes Score Provost Awards—and Not for the First Time Andrew J Schappert Mon, 03/02/2026 - 16:35

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Four Schar School of Policy and Government student-athletes were among the 78 from �鶹��Ƶ athletics who received the 2026 Peter N. Stearns Provost Scholar-Athlete Award in February. All four were awarded the distinction multiple times in their Schar School careers.

Two-Time Winners

June Johnson, the coxswain on the women’s rowing team, is a senior graduating after three years in the international security and law program. She is from Warrenton, Virginia.

June Johnson, women’s rowing, poses with her award with Interim Provost and Executive Vice President Ajay Vinzé, left, and Assistant Vice President and Director of Athletics Marvin Lewis, right.

“For me, balancing my academic and athletic schedule comes down to intentional planning and centering in purpose,” she said. “It’s also about gravitating toward things you enjoy—take classes that genuinely interest you and try every new opportunity till you find something you can’t imagine putting down.

“I love my school, my team, and what I do. Because of that, I’m always excited to work hard to elevate my community and go the extra step.”

For new and prospective students weighing options, she said, “I like the saying ‘If not now, then when? If not you, then who?’ Every day is a new opportunity and it’s always important to center in the value and reward of taking chances and putting in the effort to reach your goals.”

Learn more about Johnson’s journey in the story, ”Balancing Oars and Advocacy.”

Carly Passaro, who plays defense on the women’s soccer team, is a GVIP junior from Farmington, Connecticut.

Carly Passaro, women’s soccer

“Managing an elite athletic career with successful academic performance requires discipline and consistent effort,” she said. “Striving to perform at the highest level possible in every aspect of my life is what continually motivates me to push myself.”

Three-Time Winners

GVIP 2025 graduate Kaitlyn Bestick, a goalkeeper on the women’s lacrosse team, is a current student in the Master of Political Science program from Fredericksburg, Virginia. She will finish her Bachelor’s to Accelerated Master’s (BAM) degree program in May.

Kaitlyn Bestick, women’s lacrosse

“Managing an academic and athletic career as intense as this one, it has been a collection of leaning on the people around me,” she said.

“The connection between the athletic and academic staff allows for a seamless transition from student-to-athlete and is without a doubt the reason I have been able to be successful.

“The lacrosse team specifically places a high emphasis on our academic success—the time set aside, and the consistent support, from our coaches makes managing this intensity much easier.”

Catilin Cardin is a team leader in co-ed cheerleading and a government and international politics (GVIP) senior from Tolland, Connecticut.

Caitlin Cardin, co-ed cheerleading

“I manage both cheerleading and academics by utilizing time-management skills and setting aside specific times throughout my day to complete my schoolwork,” she said, offering good advice for any student. “I structure my days, assigning time for my schoolwork, my job, my personal life, and my sport. While it is not easy, it is certainly achievable if you stay focused and determined.”

The Provost Scholar-Athlete Award was established in 2009 by then-Provost Peter N. Stearns to recognize student-athletes who have earned at least 38 credit hours at George �鶹��Ƶ and achieved a cumulative grade point average of 3.75 or higher.

“This award represents the very best of what it means to be a George �鶹��Ƶ student-athlete,” said Assistant Vice President and Director of Athletics Marvin Lewis at the award ceremony. “Tonight is not just about athletic talent—it's about discipline, curiosity, leadership, and the mindset required to bring your best in every arena.

“Keep working hard. Keep pushing forward. And keep inspiring the people around you—because you are the standard.”

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George �鶹��Ƶ recognized 74 Provost Scholar-Athletes this year

Katarina Benson — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 18:58:07 +0000

George �鶹��Ƶ recognized 74 Provost Scholar-Athletes this year Katarina Benson Fri, 02/27/2026 - 13:58

For just the second time, more than 70 �鶹��Ƶ student-athletes have earned the Peter N. Stearns Provost Scholar-Athlete Award for their outstanding academic achievements. Following a record-breaking 78 honorees last year, 74 student-athletes were recognized during a ceremony held in February.

The Provost Scholar-Athlete Award was established in 2009 by then-Provost Peter N. Stearns to recognize student athletes who have achieved a cumulative grade point average of 3.75 or higher with at least 38 credit hours.

Peter N. Stearns Provost Scholar Athlete Award Ceremony 2026. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

The reception, hosted by Keith Renshaw, senior associate provost for undergraduate education, celebrated this year's Provost Scholar-Athletes and was attended by parents, deans and professors, and senior athletics administrators.

Interim provost and executive vice president Ajay Vinzé congratulated the group. Jack Chapman, a senior member of the swimming and diving team and a three-time recipient of the award, spoke on behalf of his fellow student athletes.

Marvin Lewis, George �鶹��Ƶ assistant vice president and director of athletics, also congratulated the honorees during the ceremony. "This award represents the very best of what it means to be a George �鶹��Ƶ student-athlete," he said. "Tonight is not just about athletic talent— it's about discipline, curiosity, leadership, and the mindset required to bring your best in every arena. Keep working hard. Keep pushing forward. And keep inspiring the people around you—because you are the standard."

Among this year's honorees, 31 are first-time recipients, 29 have earned the award twice, and 14 have been named Provost Scholar-Athletes three or more times.

First-Time Recipients

Lucas Alberti, Baseball, Business

Bryson Barnett, Cross Country & Track, Kinesiology

Regan Bestick, Lacrosse, Biology

Kaitlyn Bronowicz, Softball, Community Health

Charles Bunting, Wrestling, Business

Davian Burke, Indoor/Outdoor Track, Mechanical Engineering

Owen Clyne, Baseball, Integrated Studies

Riley Ellis, Lacrosse, Neuroscience

Shivaani Ganesh, Women's Tennis, Cyber Security Engineering

Jack Graham, Women's Swimming & Diving, Business

Tess Altevers Harris, Softball, Economics

David Hill, Men's Volleyball, Business

Pierce Hokenson, Golf, Business

Julia Howe, Rowing, Criminal Justice

Kaitlyn Kutz, Rowing, Chemistry

Marta Kux, Rowing, Business

Alexander Lillie, Men's Volleyball, Criminology, Law and Society

Sabrina Liu, Rowing, Nursing

Jordan Lucas, Women's Volleyball, Neuroscience

Michael Madigan, Baseball, Business

Adelline Oliveira, Women's Swimming & Diving, Physics

Helena Santacana, Indoor/Outdoor Track, Mechanical Engineering

Aleigha Scherber, Women's Swimming & Diving, Biology

Ryan Serbia, Men's Swimming & Diving, Electrical Engineering

Madison Sobota, Softball, English

Thomas Stofka, Wrestling, Kinesiology

Noelle Talarek, Women's Tennis, Integrated Studies

Giselle Torain, Lacrosse, Psychology

Kailynn Tyson, Indoor/Outdoor Track, Elementary Education

Maxwell Vom Saal, Cross Country & Track, Kinesiology

Camryn Weldon, Women's Volleyball, Business

Aidan Weltin, Men's Volleyball, Business

Angelina Zeidan, Women's Swimming & Diving, Kinesiology

Two-Time Recipients

Lauren Bailey, Co-ed Cheerleading, Sport and Recreation Studies

Victoria Bates, Women's Lacrosse, Special Education

Kara Becker, Women's Rowing, Anthropology

Julia Bike, Women's Soccer, Business

Alayna Brooker, Women's Swimming & Diving, Bioengineering

Luke Brown, Cross Country/Indoor Track, Economics

Caitlin Cardin, Co-ed Cheerleading, Government and International Politics

Mia Casciani, Women's Soccer, Sports Management

Haleigh Dellow, Softball, Psychology

Makenna Diaz, Co-ed Cheerleading, Education

Brant Ertel, Baseball, Business

Robert Evangelista, Men's Volleyball, Business

Amalia Florou Dimitriadou, Women's Indoor Track, Psychology

Marie Franjicic, Women's Soccer, Kinesiology

Kaleigh Friend, Softball, Special Education

Sarah "Midori" Galligan, Women's Rowing, Kinesiology

Page Greenburg, Women's Basketball, Psychology

Kristen Ivey, Women's Swimming & Diving, Criminology, Law and Society

June Johnson, Women's Rowing, International Security and Law

Elene Meurmishvili, Women's Rowing, Economics

Harlowe Nigh, Softball, Psychology

Carly Passaro, Women's Soccer, Government and International Politics

Isabella Puentes, Women's Rowing, Electrical Engineering

Clare Smith, Women's Swimming & Diving, Psychology

Casey Tingen, Women's Swimming & Diving, Business

Madyson Taylor, Women's Soccer, Community Health

Jazmine Vasquez, Women's Rowing, Business

Three-Year Recipients

Megan Baird, Women's Indoor Track, Computer Engineering

Kaitlyn Bestick, Women's Lacrosse, Political Science

Evan Blanchard, Baseball, Sports Management

Selamawit Caldart, Women's Soccer, Integrated Studies

Pilar Cerritos Gatto, Women's Rowing, Psychology

Jack Chapman, Men's Swimming & Diving, Criminology, Law and Society

Rachel Eberly, Women's Soccer, Sports Management

Peyton Farley, Women's Lacrosse, Psychology

Alexandra Hooks, Women's Soccer, Biology

Kamryn Inman, Softball, Community Health

Sierra Matheson, Women's Indoor Track, English

Ella ("Marley") Oare, Women's Indoor Track, Global Affairs

Allyson Yeary, Women's Swimming & Diving, Business

Georgi Zahariev, Men's Volleyball, Cyber Security

"Tonight is not just about athletic talent—it's about discipline, curiosity, leadership, and the mindset required to bring your best in every arena."

—Marvin Lewis, Assistant VP and Director of Athletics

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Patriot Profile: Jaylin Lott

ckearney — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 19:31:43 +0000

Patriot Profile: Jaylin Lott ckearney Mon, 12/01/2025 - 14:31

Jaylin Lott

Year: Sophomore

Major: Business with a minor in sport management

Hometown: San Antonio, Texas

The athlete and competitor in her fuel George �鶹��Ƶ’s Jaylin Lott’s love for volleyball, but it’s the inner serenity that singing brings her that she treasures away from the court.

Photo by George �鶹��Ƶ Athletics

An Almost Idol: Lott experiences the best of both worlds as a 5-foot-5 defensive specialist for the Patriots women’s volleyball team who also moonlights as a singer—one talented enough to have performed the national anthem at numerous NBA games and in George �鶹��Ƶ’s EagleBank Arena. Her powerful voice even carried her to the third round of last year’s American Idol tryouts, where she was one of just 15 singers selected from a pool of roughly 300 during an in-person audition in Salt Lake City, Utah.

It’s a Family Affair: Strong vocals run in the family. Lott’s grandmother, Ava, who passed away in 2020, sang in the church choir and remains her inspiration. Lott began singing around age 13 while competing and lettering in both volleyball and track at Clark High School in Texas. Her father, Jason, a former Division I track and field athlete at Texas State University, noticed early on that his daughter was gifted in music as well. “[Sports and singing are] both ways to escape the stress that naturally comes with life,” Lott said. “They’ve each been therapeutic in different ways and at different times. I have a deep love for both.”

At the End of the Day: Lott says it's not uncommon to find her singing along to her karaoke machine to unwind after a long day of classes and practice. Her musical inspirations include Whitney Houston, Beyoncé, and other old-school artists she credits for shaping her style and confidence. “As I’ve gotten older, I look forward to coming home and singing karaoke,” she said. “It’s kind of been my peace, especially after moving so far away from home.”

Taking the Stage: She was just a sophomore in high school when she first sang the national anthem before a San Antonio Spurs game, a moment that felt larger than life. “It was pretty big,” Lott recalled, “I was nervous at first, but it was pretty cool.” She returned to perform at Spurs games many times since, and has even sung for a larger crowd before a Dallas Mavericks game at the American Airlines Center.

Photo provided

Passion on the Court: Lott continues to make an impact on the Patriots team that enjoyed its most successful non-conference season since 2009, surpassing last year’s 11-win total and earning a spot in the Atlantic-10 Conference Tournament that was held in Richmond, Virginia, in November.

“She has such a gift for passing and defense in middle-back,” said George �鶹��Ƶ women’s volleyball Head Coach Megan Shifflett Bachmann, “and she’s one of the most naturally talented individuals I’ve had the pleasure to coach in that position.”

Bachmann first learned of Lott’s musical talent during recruiting and was immediately impressed. “We’re always hoping to hear even more from her, without putting too much pressure around it,” Shifflett Bachmann said, “It’s a joy every time I overhear her singing to herself in the hallway or along with the music at practice.”

Singing Her Own Song: Singing is more than a hobby for Lott, it’s a passion she hopes to turn into a career. Lott continues to reach out to NBA teams in the region and in her hometown about national anthem gigs while also eyeing possible future auditions on The Voice. Lott also wrote songs for fun throughout middle and high school, and she has long imagined taking the next step—writing music professionally and eventually recording her own music in a studio. Finding time between school and volleyball has been tough, but she’s determined. “I want to put in the work it takes to have people one day hear my music,” she said. “It’s a peaceful thing for me to do, and it carries my grandmother’s legacy, too.”

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Teaming up: College of Public Health and Athletics partner to support athletes holistically

Taylor Thomas — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 12:57:51 +0000

Teaming up: College of Public Health and Athletics partner to support athletes holistically Taylor Thomas Mon, 10/27/2025 - 08:57

A new partnership between the College of Public Health (CPH) and the Athletics Department is taking shape at �鶹��Ƶ, starting with a shared commitment to boost nutrition support for student-athletes.

Photo by Rafael Suanes/George �鶹��Ƶ Athletics

“From the start, we saw an opportunity to merge two strengths at George �鶹��Ƶ: our expertise in public health and Athletics’ commitment to student well-being,” said Dean Melissa Perry of the College of Public Health. “This collaboration was part of the vision when we recruited Dr. Martin Binks, knowing his leadership could help connect nutrition science directly to the needs of our student-athletes.”

“At George �鶹��Ƶ, we believe in developing champions in every aspect of life, which means investing in the holistic well-being of our student-athletes,” said Marvin Lewis, assistant vice president and director of Intercollegiate Athletics. “This partnership with the College of Public Health reinforces that commitment by bringing expert support in nutrition, wellness, and education—helping our Patriots thrive in competition and beyond. We’re proud to build this model of collaboration and grateful to the College of Public Health leadership for their shared vision and partnership.”

Currently, the nutrition department is assisting Athletics as they hire a full-time registered dietitian, who will serve as both a direct resource for student-athletes as well as a preceptor for dietetics students completing supervised practice hours in the Graduate Program in Nutrition and Dietetics.

The department is also designing a new athlete-focused section of one of its most popular courses, NUTR 295: Fundamentals of Nutrition. The class will keep its general nutrition framework while folding in case studies and other content tailored to athletic performance, designed in consultation with coaches and trainers.

“Athletics is proactively supporting the whole student, not just their athletic performance. Our department shares that philosophy and is ready to support it,” said Martin Binks, chair of the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies (NFS) at CPH.

On the CPH side, for students enrolled in the MS in Nutrition’s Nutrition and Performance concentration, the partnership opens more doors for applied learning and collaboration. Internships and practicums with Athletics will place them alongside the university’s strength and conditioning staff, trainers, and teams.

Binks has joined the George �鶹��Ƶ Athletics Medical Review Team, a strategically assembled advisory group tasked with evaluating and improving the standard of sports medicine care available to student-athletes. “It’s the first time the College of Public Health has had representation in that process,” Binks noted.

These initial steps lay the groundwork for broader connections between CPH and Athletics in the future. During a September CPH kickoff meeting, faculty and athletics leaders also discussed opportunities in social work and mental-health support, as well as immersive learning using virtual reality and augmented reality to enhance anatomy and physiology education. Additional plans include workshops and seminars on a range of wellness topics related to self-care, sleep, and stress management, as well as topics centered on leadership and life after student athletics.

Thumbnail photo by Ayman Rashid/Creative Services/�鶹��Ƶ.

In This Story

Martin Binks PhD, MBA

Melissa J. Perry, Sc.D., MHS, MBA

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Balancing Oars and Advocacy: Schar School Senior June Johnson’s Leadership Journey

Andrew J Schappert — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 16:50:23 +0000

Balancing Oars and Advocacy: Schar School Senior June Johnson’s Leadership Journey Andrew J Schappert Thu, 10/23/2025 - 12:50

“I didn’t know rowing existed in high school. There was no team in my area because we didn’t have a river near us,” said June Johnson, a senior International Security and Law major in the Schar School of Policy and Government and an Honors College student. Now a coxswain on �鶹��Ƶ’s women’s rowing team, the Warrenton, Virginia, native balances her sports career, passion for law, and activism for athletes’ mental health.

June Johnson: ‘My grandma would tell me how great [George �鶹��Ƶ] students treated her, how great the faculty was, [and] how that experience was so empowering for her.’ Photos by George �鶹��Ƶ Athletics

For the uninitiated, the coxswain position is the boat leader, steering and motivating rowers for speed. Which suits Johnson perfectly.

Johnson’s success started with a lucky coincidence.

“When I came to George �鶹��Ƶ, they had a booth for rowing, and I thought ‘hmm, maybe I should try that,’ so that’s how I got into [rowing],” Johnson said.

And now, more than two years later, she finds that “it’s really been the best experience,” she said. “The coaches are incredible and my team is super supportive.”

For Johnson, sports and leadership go far beyond the boat, as she is also a leader in the athlete advocacy space. She runs the A-10 Conference Student Athlete Advisory Council and advocates for mental health support for young athletes.

That advocacy is built on “finding the balance of helping grow people’s leadership [abilities] to the point they are able to speak on [advocacy] platforms, and making sure their needs are met as well as bringing together people who are already confident and want to speak up,” Johnson said.

Having realized law school would be her goal as early as her freshman year of college, Johnson emailed Assistant Professor Phillip Mink, the director of the Patriot Pre-Law Program in the Schar School, and, seeing untapped potential, expressed interest in bringing more activity to the organization.

“I was initially skeptical of June’s plan to reorganize the club,” Mink said. “But then she started talking, and her energy level was palpable. She was so fearless, confident, and articulate that I immediately felt comfortable with her leadership.”

After getting on board, Johnson helped find a team of dedicated board members and got to work. “It was a great first year, and we did nine events each semester,” said Johnson. She is now president of the program.

Having graduated from high school early, Johnson wasn’t sure where to go for college. Her grandmother, Shirley Metzger, BS Social Work '01, a George �鶹��Ƶ alumna, stepped in to help.

Johnson as coxswain: ‘It’s really been the best experience. The coaches are incredible and my team is super supportive.’

“My grandma would tell me how great students treated her, how great the faculty was, [and] how that experience was so empowering for her,” Johnson said. She couldn’t resist applying.

When asked how she is able to manage so many commitments, Johnson said, “I have such a great support network.”

She believes having people that you can trust and talk to makes a big difference, and she is lucky to have that. “Careful planning and love for what you do” are the other two ingredients of success, she added.

From advocacy for mental health to pre-law resources, Johnson always does the most that she can and helps those around her build a supportive community.

“Everything I do is because I love people in my life,” Johnson said.

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Phillip Mink

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�鶹��Ƶ alum helps suspend disbelief in Cirque du Soleil production

Katarina Benson — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 11:42:46 +0000

�鶹��Ƶ alum helps suspend disbelief in Cirque du Soleil production  Katarina Benson Fri, 09/26/2025 - 07:42

With the 20th anniversary of the �鶹��Ƶ men’s basketball team’s unprecedented run to the 2006 Final Four approaching, Gracie Valdez, BA Art History ’07, finds herself nostalgic. 

Not just as a George �鶹��Ƶ grad, but as someone who was on the court, traveling with the team, and performing as a member of the �鶹��Ƶettes dance team. 

Valdez is the artistic director for Cirque du Soleil’s LUZIA. Photo provided

“We were all a really tight-knit team,” Valdez said. “We were making a name for ourselves. It was the basketball team, cheer [squad], and us, and we were working together. It was so special. It was magic.” 

Two decades later, Valdez is part of another team that suspends disbelief. She currently serves as the artistic director for Cirque du Soleil’s LUZIA, which travels around the world and is playing through October 18 under the “Big Top” tent outside Tysons Galleria.  

Coming from a stop in Montreal, the show’s six-week run in Virginia serves as a homecoming for Valdez, whose family moved to Vienna when she was in fourth grade. Using stunning visuals, acrobatic stunts, and 10,000 liters of water (recycled after each show) in a mesmerizing waterfall sequence, LUZIA puts a spotlight on the culture and mythology of Mexico. 

“LUZIA is a love letter to Mexico,” Valdez said. “It is a very unique way of celebrating the surrealism, the art, some of the mythology in Mexican culture… I have Mexican heritage, and it has been a deep source of pride being able to share this beautiful work around the world. Then bringing it home, bringing it to Northern Virginia is extra special.” 

Valdez has been with Cirque du Soleil for more than 16 years, including the last nine with LUZIA. Her job consists of managing more than 45 artists, which include acrobats and cast members, along with the stage managers, coaches, and performance medicine therapists. She oversees the production show and prepares in case artists get injured or sick, ensuring the audience doesn’t see a drop in quality. 

“She is keeping the intention of the creation team,” said Cirque du Soleil publicist Charlie Wagner, who has worked with Valdez since 2019. “They really have freedom, but Gracie is great at giving them guidance. They are free to explore themselves and she is helping them to become better artists.” 

Valdez grew up participating in dance and performing arts but said she wasn’t aware this was a potential career path. Previously she co-directed the Washington, D.C.-based modern dance company Mayzsoul and coached competitive high school dance teams in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area.  

At Mayzsoul, she was mentored by founder and fellow George �鶹��Ƶ alum Melanie Lalande, BFA Dance ’01. When Lalande took a job at Cirque du Soleil in 2008 as an artistic director, she persuaded Valdez to join her in a temporary post. She worked her way up the ladder as stage manager and assistant artistic director at a couple different shows for Cirque du Soleil while also picking up freelance opportunities in Australia, where she now lives. 

“The running joke on the team was always that Gracie was going to end up working for Cirque du Soleil,” former �鶹��Ƶettes coach Michelle Debban said. “She was one of the most flexible dancers on the team, and she’d often try to contort herself in crazy positions to see what she was capable of. I am not surprised in the least that she is where she is today.

“Dancers are generally so much more than just dancers—they usually know the ins and outs of running a show, whether it means costume choices or show order or making sure everyone is where they need to be.”

Valdez said the skills she developed as a student-athlete—discipline, work ethic, time management, and collaboration—resonate even more in her current leadership role. 

“That was a saving grace for me in my university career but also really taught me amazing discipline that I cherish,” she said. “We worked really hard as a group, as a team. We competed nationally for four years and were really successful. I think that was the highlight of my university career.” 

Valdez acknowledges the practicality of her humanities degree. With her double major, she took several painting technique courses and explored Islamic and Latin American art history. The latter piqued her interest as one of her final papers examined how the relationship of Mexican painters Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo fueled their artwork.  

“Taking that information I learned through those courses and here I am celebrating this Mexican culture, Mexican art,” she said. “I think it was pretty serendipitous in how my education all melded into where I am now.” 

The �鶹��Ƶ Alumni Association is planning a George �鶹��Ƶ Night with Cirque du Soleil on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. George �鶹��Ƶ alumni are invited to stay after the show for an exclusive meet and greet with select performers from LUZIA.

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Patriot Profile: Jackson Herbert

Katarina Benson — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 14:17:12 +0000

Patriot Profile: Jackson Herbert Katarina Benson Thu, 08/14/2025 - 10:17

Spending another summer in Southern California playing beach volleyball isn’t just fun in the sun for �鶹��Ƶ student athlete Jackson Herbert. The nuances and physical demands of the faster-paced beach game are considerably different from indoor volleyball, but he said playing has significantly elevated his indoor game. Now Herbert, a junior and men’s volleyball opposite from Ashburn, Virginia, feels he may be primed for a breakout season with the Patriots this year.

George �鶹��Ƶ men's volleyball player Jackson Herbert. Photo by Ron Aira/Office of University Branding

“When I’m playing indoors, I feel like I’m flying because there’s nothing holding me down,” he said.

Herbert playing beach volleyball in California. Photo provided

Training Is a Beach: This summer, Herbert trained in the Los Angeles area, where his daily regime involved two to three hours of practice in the sand, followed by a dip in the ocean before grabbing a bite to eat, weightlifting, and recuperative time in the hot tub. Before finishing the day, he might have another dip in the ocean. Rinse and repeat.

Doing It All: Opposites, also known as the right-side hitter, are versatile players who rotate through both the front and back row, with key responsibilities that include hitting, blocking, and occasionally setting. The two-person beach game requires all that, and then some. “You have to be able to pass, set, and serve well,” said Herbert. “You have to be able to do it all.”

All in the Family: As a kid, Herbert would tag along with his parents who played in a co-ed league for Dulles Beach Volleyball. His mother soon enrolled him in volleyball clinics, and by age 10, he was competing in indoor volleyball. “My love for the sport grew from there,” he said.

Home Away from Home: When it came time to choose a college, Herbert considered two things: location and brotherhood. As the oldest of three, he wanted to stay close to home so he could be involved in his siblings’ lives, supporting them at their tournaments and games whenever possible. He also values the tight-knit, open-door culture of George �鶹��Ƶ’s men’s volleyball team. “I knew some of the guys before committing, and every interaction pulled me closer to George �鶹��Ƶ,” he said. “It made the decision really easy.”

Balancing Passions: A member of the Honors College, Herbert’s interest in technology comes naturally—his dad is a software developer, which inspired him to take cybersecurity and software development classes in high school. Enjoying what he learned, he decided to pursue computer science as a major.

Jackson Herbert (right) with Team USA teammate Kai Rodriguez. Photo provided

All the Way with Team USA: In October, Herbert, who previously played for the U.S. Beach Volleyball U19 and U21 teams, will join the U21 squad to compete in the 2025 FIVB U21 Beach World Championships in Puebla, Mexico. “It was an amazing experience,” he said of his previous opportunity with the national teams. “I’m excited to do this again.”

Setting His Sights: Herbert hopes to earn spots with the U.S. Collegiate and U23 Beach Volleyball National teams next summer. Beyond college, he would like to play professionally on the Association of Volleyball Professionals tour—the premier professional beach volleyball league in the United States. “I’d like to continue doing this at the highest level.”

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