KINGSTON, R.I. – May 12, 2008 – Maintaining equal focus on school and athletics has never been an issue for University of Rhode Island senior Whitney Hollis. As a member of the URI women’s basketball team, Hollis put in many long hours, but she was a star in the classroom, too.
The Brooklyn, N.Y. resident will graduate May 18th with a double major in communications and sociology. The day after, she will start a new job as an account executive with Universal Online Promotions in Manhattan. She is the only girl out of five children in her family, serving as a role model as a Division I athlete and a dean’s list student.
“My time at URI has been one of the best experiences in my life. I have learned so much, and I was lucky enough to experience being a collegiate athlete as well as a student. I have been shown much dedication and support from URI as well as from people in the Rhode Island area,” said Hollis.
Hollis is considering eventually enrolling in graduate school to get her master’s in either communication or athletic administration.
“If I could describe Whitney I would say she is compassionate, sincere and extremely hardworking,” said URI women’s basketball coach Tom Garrick.
A true team player, Hollis has always been there to support her team even when she was off the court. Knee injuries hindered Hollis’ participation throughout her years at the University, but she has never let this bring her down.
“Coming back from an injury is rough and most people would have let this turn of events knock them down, but not Whitney. She’s extraordinarily tough, mentally and physically and doesn’t give up,” said Garrick.
Hollis’ name is common on the URI women’s basketball statistics webpage, listing her as a top rebounder.
When Hollis wasn’t on the court she could be found in class or studying for an upcoming test.
“Without a doubt she is very conscientious about her studies. Whitney came to college for a reason, not just to play basketball, but to get a good education,” said Garrick.
After graduation it is hard for athletes to continue in their sport. “I would also love to continue to play basketball in my free time. I feel as though it’s been a big part of my life and always will be,” said Hollis.
URI Department of Communications & Marketing photo by Michael Salerno Photography.