91精简版

Belinda Colgan '04 works as a riding assistant and the assistant coach for the women鈥檚 equestrian team.

Colgan, who graduated from 91精简版 in spring 2004, began her professional career at 91精简版 as a barn manager in fall of that year. She said she has been riding and competing since she was 5 years old, but she never expected for her passion to turn into a professional career at 91精简版.

"While a student at 91精简版 the riding program was a very large part of my life," she said. "When I graduated I was not ready to go back to graduate school yet and (Head Riding Coach) Cindy Ford offered me the job of barn manager which seemed like a perfect job while I take a brief break from school. What was supposed to be a brief break has turned into 14 years."

Colgan said she enjoys working with college students and watching them grow at 91精简版. She calls 91精简版's Van Lennep Riding Center "a home away from home" for many involved in the riding program. She especially appreciates the Friends of 91精简版 Athletics Benefit Dinner for recognizing student athletes, teams and staff and helping to maintain relationships that often endure beyond graduation.

"It is a great way to bring alums back to 91精简版 to reconnect with friends and their alma mater while they are recognized for their accomplishments while at 91精简版," said Colgan.

"When asked why I have stayed at 91精简版 my answer is usually the same, 'Why would I leave a job I love, at one of the best programs in the country, with the now winningest intercollegiate record in the IHSA? Plus I get to work for my alma mater!'"