May 14, 2010
(Columbia, Mo) - Eight student-athletes from the University of Missouri women's soccer team are among the school's graduates this academic school year, highlighted by the annual graduation ceremonies across campus this weekend. Senior Michelle Collins and four-year letter winner Janelle Cordia are two of the 51 student-athletes to receive their diploma this weekend.
"We're so proud of these young men and women," said MU Director of Athletics Mike Alden. "They embody the true spirit of the student-athlete experience. Everyone's time on the athletic field comes to an end, but earning a degree is something that they'll have for the rest of their lives. We're very grateful for all of the hard work they have given to Mizzou in competition, in the classroom and in the community, and we wish them the best."
Collins, a communications science and disorder major and two-time Academic All-Big 12 second team selection, was the recipient of the 2009 Director of Athletics Leadership Award and will receive a $5,000 postgraduate scholarship to pursue a master's degree of her choosing.
Cordia, a triple major in secondary education, mathematics, and psychology, is a three-time Academic All-Big 12 first team honoree and will take part in the arts and science ceremony on Saturday at Hearnes Center, along with senior Crystal Wagner who will officially graduate in August with a psychology degree.
Former Tiger midfielder Mo Redmond is also on pace to complete her nursing degree during the summer semester, while four of her teammates completed their studies last December and were recognized at the fall semester graduation ceremonies: Lindsay McCoy double majored in psychology and communication, Mallory Forst received her elementary education degree, Meghan Pfeiffer earned a Bachelors of Business Administration in marketing, and Kat Tarr completed her degree in interdisciplinary studies after being drafted by the Chicago Red Stars of Women's Professional Soccer.
The University of Missouri's Total Person Program oversees the academic progress of all Tiger student-athletes and provides professional staff and services including academic coordinators, tutorial assistance, mentoring, study skills development, career planning, life skills, and other resources at the Shelden Academic Resource Center in the Mizzou Athletic Training Complex.