Fall 2026

BRITTNEY SHANER REHS ’13 – WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Shaner Rehs, of Greenwood, Ind., was one of the most prolific scorers in the history of the SMWC women’s basketball program. She earned USCAA All-American honors in 2011 and concluded her career with a school-record 1,767 points. Her scoring ability, consistency and impact on the court established a standard of excellence for future generations of Pomeroy women’s basketball players. After graduation, Rehs earned a Doctor of Physical Therapy at the University of Evansville and works as a physical therapist. “Being inducted into the Hall of Fame is an incredible honor and something I’m truly grateful for. Basketball was such a meaningful part of my life, and the relationships, lessons and memories I gained through the game have stayed with me long after my playing days. I’m thankful for the coaches, teammates, family and friends who supported me throughout my journey. To have my time as a college athlete recognized in this way is incredibly special, and I’m honored to be a part of this year’s Hall of Fame class.”

FU URE FAI H in our

President Brennan Randolph with Brittney Shaner Rehs ’13 and Kevin Lanke, associate vice president for athletics.

D uring the summer, the Board of Trustees approved Saint Mary of-the-Woods College’s newest strategic plan, Faith in Our Future . This plan looks ahead and builds on the previous plans: Aspire Higher , launched in 2015, and Aspire Even Higher , launched in 2019. On the 20th anniversary of the canonization of SMWC’s foundress, Saint Mother Theodore Guerin, the College stands at a pivotal moment in its storied 186-year history—one that calls for bold reflection on its mission, a proactive response to the evolving student needs and a strategic approach to the challenges and opportunities of an ever-changing higher education landscape. Faith in Our Future presents a focused, actionable roadmap to guide the College into its next chapter. Faith in Our Future is more than a document—it represents a shared commitment to continuous improvement, mission-aligned By BJ Riley ’16, ’23MLD, ’24MBA Vice President for Advancement

1997 SOFTBALL TEAM Coached by Dennis Leek, the 1997 softball team posted a remarkable 43-5 record and became the first championship team in program history. The Pomeroys recorded several signature victories during their historic campaign, including a 2-0 fall season win over NCAA Division I opponent Indiana State. The team also earned victories over the University of Indianapolis and IUPUI. The success of the 1997 team established a championship standard for SMWC softball and laid the foundation for the program’s future success on the national stage. Leek was assisted by Bill Carter, Eileen Murdock and Carl Heck (manager). Members of the team included: Julie Carter Compton ’00, Erica Hoffman Holman ’99, Jamie Hubble Tucker ’99, Shari Sturm Elder ’98, Lynn Theising Bristol ’98, Christina White Fledderman ’99, Kimberly White Bessler ’99, Amber Huff ’00, Linsey Rash Yeryar ’00, Sally Frank Poppe ’99, Jaimie Reid Quane ’00 and Misti Allen Karas ’01. “As a second-year coach at the time and pioneering the second sport on campus, this was the farthest thing from any of our minds. We were thankful that the NSCAA allowed us to resurrect a national softball tournament, and we were even more fortunate to win it,” Leek said. “On behalf of myself and the team, I can honestly say we are in ‘awe’ and honored to be selected for this prestigious event. Forever etched in the history of SMWC Athletics is an amazing accomplishment for all of us – coaches, staff and players.”

innovation and collective accountability. As SMWC advances its priorities, it does so with clarity of purpose, confidence in its community and faith in its future. Grounded in the College’s enduring values and informed by thoughtful analysis, the plan is rooted in five key strategic priorities. Together, these actionable priorities are foundational pillars to Faith in Our Future. ENHANCING STUDENT EXPERIENCE AND OUTCOMES: SMWC will continue to place students at the center of its efforts— investing in programs, support systems and experiences that foster personal growth, academic success and professional readiness. BOLSTERING FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY: SMWC will refine its financial strategies and institutional practices to secure long-term viability and uphold its mission for future generations.

FOSTERING IMPACTFUL ENGAGEMENT: SMWC will cultivate meaningful connections among students, employees, alumni and community partners, recognizing that vibrant engagement is essential to both individual achievement and institutional impact. ELEVATING PRESENCE AND REPUTATION: Through intentional storytelling and strategic outreach, SMWC will amplify its message to broaden awareness, increase engagement, support recruitment and fundraising and advance its role as a vital educational and community institution. PROMOTING ACCOUNTABLE GOVERNANCE: SMWC will strengthen governance practices across all leadership levels, ensuring transparent, effective decision-making and accountability that extends from the Board of Trustees to departmental administration and student leadership.

The 1997 Softball Team at the ceremony.

1997 Head Softball Coach Dennis Leek speaks at the Athletic Hall of Fame event after he and his team are inducted.

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