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.
Leanna Pham, a member of the CCNY women's volleyball team, boasts a 3.73 grade-point average, majoring in communications. This fall, Pham posted a perfect 4.0 GPA and was selected to the CUNYAC Scholar-Athlete Honor Roll, a citation she has earned each semester she's been eligible.
"Words can't express my appreciation towards receiving the CUNYAC Honorable Mention Scholar-Athlete award. I've learned that the effort you put into working hard at practices and preparing for games, should be shown ten-times more in the classroom," Pham said. "Never stop working hard towards your future and don't forget the people who supported you along the way. Although my journey as a student-athlete has ended, I'll take all the life lessons and accomplishments with me as I continue prospering professionally in my career. "
Pham was a four-year letter winner, appearing in 86 matches in a Beavers uniform, accumulating 221 digs, 23 service aces and 21 assists. This season, the Bronx native played an integral role in CCNY earning its first postseason win in five years, helping the Beavers reach the CUNYAC Championship semifinals.
In addition, she serves as a team manager for the Beavers' men's volleyball team.
"There is no person that is more committed to the program than Leanna," Head Coach Ana Todorovic said. "She's first in the classroom, she's first at practice, she's first to motivate others, and she equally loves everything she does. Every team should have a Leanna Pham.
I cannot explain how proud I am of Leanna, and what she has accomplished in the past few years."
2019-20 CUNYAC/HSS Scholar-Athlete of the Year Honorable Mention
HSS is ranked #1 in the nation for orthopedics by U.S. News & World Report for the 10th straight year. No wonder the City University of New York Athletic Conference trust HSS as their official hospital. For more information, please visit www.HSS.edu. During this time of social distancing, HSS has developed resources to adjust to working from home, located on the new HSS Feel Better From Home website.