Fifty Years of Women's Athletics at Union College

Special Collections & Archives and Schaffer Library proudly present “’Determined to Compete and Win:’ 50 Years of Women's Athletics at Union College," an exhibit commemorating a half-century of women's athletics at Union. This exhibition reflects on fifty years of dedication, triumph, and transformative progress and serves as a vibrant testament to the remarkable journey of female athletes at Union College.

Embark on a chronological exploration, witnessing the early days of women's sports at Union, where determination often outweighed resources. The exhibit features impactful stories and highlights pivotal moments, such as the establishment of women's teams, the gradual expansion of athletic opportunities, and hard-fought battles for equity along the way.

This exhibit is more than a retrospective; it is a celebration of resilience, a recognition of the enduring power of teamwork, and an inspiration for future generations of female athletes. It underscores the vital role that women's athletics has played in shaping the culture and character of Union College.Through archival photographs, programs, oral histories, and personal narratives, this exhibit paints a vivid picture of the challenges faced and the victories achieved.

The curators invite students, faculty, alumni, and the community to immerse themselves in this rich history, to honor the women who paved the way, and to reflect on the profound impact of their contributions. This exhibit is a powerful reminder that the pursuit of excellence knows no gender, and that the legacy of women's athletics at Union College will continue to inspire for generations to come.

Curatorial Team 

Corinne Chatnik
Tracy Chen '26
Joseph Lueck
Petr Melnikov '28
Sarah Schmidt
Meghan Willis

For more information on any of the collections or materials referenced in this site, please contact Special Collections & Archives.