ONYX ANNEAU - FALL 2025

THE WOODS TODAY

The Avenue moment occurred upon entering one evening to support a family member who would soon become a fellow “Woodsie.” She sang with the Madrigals one evening in the Conservatory of Music, one of the most breath-taking venues I had ever been in. Then realizing The Woods has a softball program, I said to myself, what are the chances. I had recently changed my major to elementary education and in search of a new college to pursue not only my academic dreams, but my athletic dreams. Then one evening it happened, I received a phone call from the softball coach requesting a visit. During my time at The Woods in addition to playing softball, I was a resident assistant, a member of presidential corps, and participated in all the memorable historical traditions; the Acorn Ceremony, Big Sis/Lil Sis, Ring Day pounding and Midnight Breakfast to name a few. The career services opportunities left an ever-impactful impression. Setting the stage for my next steps into the real world, I was able to build relationships, network and ascertain the skills to begin a career. Becoming a practitioner in the industry was not only an eye-opening and life-changing experience but truly fulfilling an athletic niche. I had grown to love and appreciate the industry while also beginning to teach. The best of both worlds was at hand. However, when The Woods has an opportunity in the field you grew to know and love for years, you take it! Was it a “calling,” maybe, was it the right time, perhaps. Was it Providence, most likely! I embraced the opportunity to return home to provide the experience I once had, to impact the future generations, especially with the addition of athletic programs, which enhance the culture and future of The Woods, absolutely! The small class sizes, one-on one instruction, and the sense of belonging and focus on people through support of the administration and peers are why I came back and remain in my current position. Aspire Even Higher — as the possibilities to grow and develop as a young professional are endless! Throughout her career, Sawyer served as NCAA assistant compliance director at ISU and the assistant athletic director/ compliance and senior women’s administrator at Eastern Illinois University. She came to The Woods as an assistant professor in sport management in 2020 and was named chair of the Department of Business and Leadership in 2023. Tonya Tonya Gimbert Sawyer, Ph.D., earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from SMWC in 2007. She later earned a master’s degree in recreation and sport management and her Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction from Indiana State University.

— Tonya Gimbert Sawyer ’07, Ph.D. Chair, Department of Business & Leadership Assistant Professor of Sport Management

3