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. To be eligible for the Scholar-Athlete of the Year Award, the nominee must be graduating with a preferred 3.5 GPA or better (on a 4.0 scale).
Virginia Anne Dundon, a member of the Hunter women's swimming and diving team, owns a 3.628 grade-point average, double majoring in English and Media Studies.
In the pool, Dundon is a three-time CUNYAC All-Star and three-time individual conference champion. At this year's league championships, Dundon won gold medals in both the 100-yard breaststroke and 200-yard breaststroke, leading the Hawks to their first CUNYAC title since 2017. She capped off her impressive career by smashing a 20-year school record in the 50-yard breaststroke at the Metropolitan Championships with a time of 31.69. She is also a member of the school record-holding 200-yard medley relay team.
"Thank you to everyone who considered me for this award," said Dundon. "I was lucky to finish my season and my swimming career on a high note. I know many of my fellow CUNY athletes weren't able to continue their seasons this year, so having had the chance to compete was extremely fortunate. It's so special to be part of Hunter College's swim team amongst young women who work hard in and out of the pool, guided by coaches who consistently put us first. To be supported by them, along with my family and friends, made my time at Hunter possible. I can't thank them enough."
"During her time at Hunter College, Virginia has become one of the best breaststrokers in school history, while showing tremendous growth as a team, leader and person," said Hawks Head Coach and 2020 CUNYAC Coach of the Year Michael Kokoszka. "She has exemplified the meaning of student-athlete and embodies all the positive values of the College and CUNYAC.
2019-20 CUNYAC Scholar-Athlete of the Year Honorable Mentions