The City University of New York Athletic Conference annually recognizes its best and brightest student-athletes, who not only excel in athletics, but succeed in the classroom as well. Over the next few weeks, CUNYAC will recognize those who truly embody what it means to be a student-athlete. The award is presented by Hospital for Special Surgery, the official hospital of the CUNY Athletic Conference.
Mary Jo Anzano, a member of the John Jay women's soccer team, boasts a stellar 3.84 grade-point average, majoring in Criminal Justice (Institutional Theory and Practice) with a minor in Law, Sustainability and Economic Justice. Anzano is the President of John Jay's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC).
While keeping up with her studies and athletics, Anzano worked at Starseed Bakery during her four years in a managerial role. In addition, she worked on several community service projects, including DeWitt Park cleanup and 9/11 flag planting.
On the pitch, Anzano appeared in 65 games for the Bloodhounds, tallying 17 points with three goals and 11 assists. Anzano played in 12 games in 2019, helping John Jay capture its first-ever CUNYAC Championship and NCAA Tournament appearance.
"Being a four-year student-athlete at John Jay has allowed me to continue my passion of playing soccer as well as meeting incredible people and gaining invaluable and unforgettable experiences," said Anzano. "I still can't believe it's been four years; time really does fly by when you're having fun. Being a student-athlete isn't just about the dedication on the field but also in the classroom. By working hard on and off the field, I am a current senior and four-year scholar student-athlete and had the opportunity to be the President of our Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. I'm proud to be a student-athlete and be part of the Bloodhound Family. It's been quite the journey and I couldn't be more thankful for all the opportunities in the past with many more to come."
2019-20 CUNYAC/HSS Scholar-Athlete of the Year Honorable Mention