Our Mission
The McNamara Academic Center is a student-athlete focused environment dedicated to guiding student-athletes to graduation, building positive relationships, and enhancing their overall experience. We strive to serve the University and our constituents with integrity and professionalism.
McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week: Mike Kvasnicka
Each week, the McNamara Academic Center for Student-Athletes (MAC) will recognize one University of Minnesota student-athlete for his or her academic achievements. The winner of the McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week for the week ending on February 5th is Mike Kvasnicka, from the men’s baseball team.
Academic Counselor Alissa Allen, comments on Mike’s perseverance and his accomplishment of becoming a leader both in his athletics and academics.
McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week: Caitlyn Dongoske
Each week, the McNamara Academic Center for Student-Athletes (MAC) will recognize one University of Minnesota student-athlete for his or her academic achievements. The winner of the McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week for the week ending on January 29th is Caitlyn Dongoske, from the women’s track team.
Academic Counselor Erin Swanson, comments on Caitlyn’s caring and compassionate demeanor and how she is a strong role model to other student-athletes.
McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week: Maggie Bollig
Each week, the McNamara Academic Center for Student-Athletes (MAC) will recognize one University of Minnesota student-athlete for his or her academic achievements. The winner of the McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week for the week ending on December 18th is Maggie Bollig, from the women’s cross country and track and field team.
Cross Country Head Coach Gary Wilson talks about his excitement for Maggie.
“It is always exciting for our program to have such talented student as Maggie. She is a great young person and a real credit to this university. We are very proud of her.”
Academic Counselor Erin Swanson, comments about Maggie’s beginning success she has attained through her hard work and dedication.
McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week: Jessica Granquist
Each week, the McNamara Academic Center for Student-Athletes (MAC) will recognize one University of Minnesota student-athlete for his or her academic achievements. The winner of the McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week for the week ending on December 11th is Jessica Granquist, from the women’s volleyball team.
Academic Counselor Chelsie Shafer recognizes Jessica’s perseverance and achievements in regards to her academics.
McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week: Nikki Schultz
Each week, the McNamara Academic Center for Student-Athletes (MAC) will recognize one University of Minnesota student-athlete for his or her academic achievements. The winner of the McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week for the week ending on December 4th is Nikki Schultz, from the women’s track and field team.
Academic Counselor Erin Swanson comments on Nikki’s continuous efforts she has put in to develop herself both academically and personally.
McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week: Harun Abda
Each week, the McNamara Academic Center for Student-Athletes (MAC) will recognize one University of Minnesota student-athlete for his or her academic achievements. The winner of the McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week for the week ending November 20th is Harun Abda, from the men’s track team.
Academic Counselor Alissa Allen acknowledges Harun’s commitment to his academics and his continuous drive to succeed both as an individual and student-athlete.
McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week: Ra’Shede Hageman
Each week, the McNamara Academic Center for Student-Athletes (MAC) will recognize one University of Minnesota student-athlete for his or her academic achievements. The winner of the McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week for the week ending on November 13th is Ra’Shede Hageman, from the men’s football team.
Cara Bauer, one of Ra’Shede’s mentor/tutor’s comments on his work ethic and dedication to his academics.
“Ra’Shede gives consistent and admirable work ethic which is displayed through:
McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week: Hailey Cowles
Each week, the McNamara Academic Center for Student-Athletes (MAC) will recognize one University of Minnesota student-athlete for his or her academic achievements. The winner of the McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week for the week ending on October 30th is Hailey Cowles, from the women’s volleyball team.
Associate Head Coach Scott Swanson remarks on how great of an honor this is for Hailey as well as the gopher volleyball team.
McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week: Ben Pisani
Each week, the McNamara Academic Center for Student-Athletes (MAC) will recognize one University of Minnesota student-athlete for his or her academic achievements. The winner of the McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week for the week ending on October 16th is Ben Pisani, from the men’s golf team.
Dr. Susanne Jones, Associate Professor in the Communications Studies Department, and supervisor of Ben’s senior paper describes his hard work and dedication in the classroom.

