Vandy Lacrosse IT’S GOOD TO BE GOLD.
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CONTENTS Core Values Meet the Coaches Team Demographics Summer Internships Student Development Staying Connected
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Welcome to Vanderbilt. It is our pleasure to introduce you to our lacrosse family and home. Here we believe in working hard together and supporting one another to accomplish our goals and dreams. Our mission always includes winning an AAC Championship and NCAA Championship. While the on-the-field accomplishments are extremely important to our group, developing the whole person is the priority. All of us will become professionals in a field other than lacrosse. That is why our passion, on and off the field, is preparing our young women for their next endeavor. We hope that you enjoy your visit to West End. This is a special place that develops incredible leaders. Anchor Down!
Beth Hewitt
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At Vanderbilt, our core values define who we are as a team and guide us in our journey to success, on and off the field. These principles reflect the foundation of our culture and our commitment to excellence.
Trust Our team thrives on a foundation of mutual respect and honesty. Trusting each other—on the field, in the locker room and in life—is what allows us to communicate effectively, perform confidently and support one another in every challenge.
Discipline We believe in the power of preparation, focus and consistency. Discipline fuels our work ethic and helps us stay committed to our goals. Whether it’s in the weight room, during practice or in the classroom, we are dedicated to doing the little things right to achieve greatness.
Grit Adversity doesn’t define us—it inspires us. Our team embodies resilience, perseverance and an unwavering determination to push past limits. When the going gets tough, we get tougher, always rising to meet the challenge.
Striving for Championship Excellence Every day, we work to elevate our program to championship standards. From developing as players and teammates to excelling academically, we are relentless in our pursuit of excellence.
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Beth Hewitt
Jill Kendall
Sophie Leva
Morgan Barlow
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Beth Hewitt is the head coach of the Vanderbilt University women’s lacrosse team, leading an all-female coaching staff. She assumed the head coach position in 2018 after serving as the program’s associate head coach from 2014 to 2018. The all-female staff exemplifies leadership and excellence in women’s collegiate lacrosse and sports.
Jill Kendall joined the staff at her alma mater ahead of the 2019 season and was elevated to associate head coach in 2024. In her first full season on the sidelines in 2019, the Commodores finished No. 4 in the nation in caused turnovers and No. 6 in the NCAA in ground balls. One of Vanderbilt’s most decorated athletes, Kendall finished her college career ranked among the school’s all-time best: second in assists (84), seventh in points (175) and third in draw controls (163).
Sophie Leva joined the Commodores before the 2024 season and was promoted to defensive coordinator and goalies coach in 2025. Before Vandy, Leva coached at Binghamton where she helped lead the Bearcats to a record-breaking season, including their first playoff win. Leva started her coaching career at the University of Indianapolis, leading the Greyhounds to a Division II National Championship. She was a standout goalie at Marquette and still holds multiple school records.
Morgan Barlow comes to Vanderbilt after spending two seasons at Lindenwood University as the team’s defensive coordinator and draw coach as they transitioned to Division I Lacrosse. She mentored the best draw taker in the league, seventh-best in the country, with 174 draw controls during the 2024 season. Prior to Lindenwood, Barlow started her coaching career at Saint Michael’s College in Vermont, where she served as the offensive coordinator and draw coach for three seasons.
The Vanderbilt Women’s Lacrosse team proudly represents a rich tapestry of backgrounds, showcasing the geographic diversity of our student-athletes. Our roster includes players hailing from 21 states across the United States, from coast to coast, as well as two talented athletes from Canada. This diversity is more than just geographic—it reflects a variety of perspectives, experiences and playing styles that contribute to our dynamic and unified team culture. Whether they are athletes from the lacrosse hotbeds of the Northeast, the vibrant communities of the South or emerging programs in the West and Midwest, every player adds unique strengths that fuel our drive for excellence. At Vanderbilt, we celebrate the shared commitment to success that brings these women together while honoring the individuality and unique journey of each team member. Together, we form a powerhouse of talent, grit and camaraderie that reflects the true spirit of Vanderbilt Women’s Lacrosse.
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A COMMODORE’S JOURNEY Nancy Halleron Attack #35
“When I was deciding where I wanted to play, one of the most important questions I asked myself was, ‘Where would I want to be if I got injured and couldn’t play?’ Vanderbilt stood out because it offered so much more than just athletics—it felt like a place where I could grow as a person, not just as a player. That decision proved to be life-changing when I faced an injury during my time here. The support system—from the coaches who cared about me as a whole person to the amazing trainers and academic resources—made all the difference. The coaches weren’t just there to help me succeed on the field—they were mentors, guiding me through tough times and helping me develop skills I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life. Vanderbilt gave me the tools to thrive professionally, academically and personally, and even during the hardest moments, I never doubted that this was the right place for me. It’s a program that truly invests in you as a whole person, preparing you for success both on and off the field.”
2022
AAC Academic Honors AAC All-Academic Teams Dean’s List Sorority: Kappa Kappa Gamma
– CBRE, 2024 Internship Sales Brokerage Case Competition Winner (Internship) Capstone: Vanderbilt Black and Gold Club (Alumni Networking) General Brower Leadership Committee
2023
SEC Academic All-American LSOE – Marketing Dean’s List
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2023 All-AAC Second Team Major: Human and Organizational Development
AAC All-Academic Two-time SEC AllAcademic Honor Roll (2023, 2024) Morgan’s Message Ambassador (Mental Health Focused)
Logan Risenhoover Midfield #15
“Vanderbilt has become my second home. Not only are the academics and athletics incredible, but the Vanderbilt Athletics community has made this place somewhere to learn, grow and flourish as an athlete, student and person. It’s rare to find a community with the balance and brilliance that Vanderbilt has built. I will forever be thankful that my 16-year-old self got that gut feeling when I first stepped on campus that this place would be more than a fouryear education and lacrosse career.”
2023
Morgan’s Message Ambassador (Mental Health Focused) Weaver Domestic Violence Shelter (Internship/ Community Service) Dean’s List Social Impact Liaison AAC All-Academic Major: Human and Organizational Development Sorority: Kappa Kappa Gamma Safe Haven Family Shelter (Youth Development Intern)
Brower Leadership 2024 General Committee Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (Initiatives) Dean’s List Team Captain SEC Honor Roll AAC All-Academic
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DORES ON THE WORLD STAGE Morgan White Biological Sciences and Medicine, Health and Society Minor – Chemistry Team Canada, silver medal in u20 World Lacrosse Championship in Hong Kong and silver medal World Lacrosse Box Games Avery Morton Medicine, Health and Society Minor – Neuroscience Team Canada, silver medal in u20 World Lacrosse Championship in Hong Kong
Kiera Runske MHS, Communication of Science and Technology Team Sweden, Bronze Medal at U21 Games in Prague
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Emily Gaven Master of Science in Finance Team Ireland, 2022 World Cup in Towson, MD, and the 2024 Euro Championship in Braga, Portugal
Katherine Ernst Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab Washington, D.C.
Alex Gladding Seacoast bank Commercial Banking Intern Miami, FL
Kate Haffenreffer Silver Lake - Private Equity Analyst New York, NY
Caelan Jones Virginia Office of the Attorney General, Legislative Intern Richmond, VA
Molly Krestinski Deutsche Bank, Commercial Real Estate New York, NY
Rocky McCauley University of Texas McGovern Medical School Brain Research Lab Houston, TX
Logan Risenhoover LFM Capital, Business Development Intern Nashville, TN
Anna Taraboletti ABOVE Vacation Residences, Property Management Nashville, TN
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VANDY HUB INTERNSHIPS
Focuses in Consulting, Health Care, Law, Real Estate and Wealth Management The Vandy Corporate Hub Internship Program offers our players the opportunity to live and work in four hub cities – Atlanta, Houston, Miami, and New York City.
“When applying to the Vanderbilt Internship Hub, I expressed my interest in pursuing a pre-health internship. Vanderbilt connected me with Tom Roush, a former member of the Vanderbilt men’s tennis team and a current Black and Gold member. I stayed in Deerfield, Florida, and commuted to his various clinics and surgical centers in Plantation, West Palm Beach and Deerfield. During this internship, I participated in the treatment and care of orthopedic surgical patients, observed surgeries and supported pre- and postoperative care during clinical visits. I also shadowed the head surgeon and his physician assistants, which provided valuable insight into clinical workflows.”
Amiyah Turner Defense #12
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Sample of Events Atlanta, Georgia Cox Case Competition, Immersive Learning Trek, Data Science Hack-a-Thon, Vanderbilt & You, Commodore Launch Sample of corporate partners: Chick-fil-A, Home Depot, Cox Communications
Houston, Texas Houston Astros Week, Immersive Learning Energy Trek, Commodore Launch, Vanderbilt & You Sample of corporate partners: ABS, Microsoft, JP Morgan
New York City Immersive Learning Trek Business/Fashion/ Beauty, Chancellor Diermeier Conversation with Deloitte, Vanderbilt & You, Commodore Launch Sample of corporate partners: Wells Fargo, L’Oreal, Deloitte, Goldman Sachs
South Florida Commodore Launch, EMERGE Conference, Leadership Miami, Miami-Dade Public School Luncheon, Vanderbilt & You Sample of corporate partners: Blue Origin, Kaseya, RBI
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IMMERSION VANDERBILT PATHWAYS Study Abroad
Research
Innovation, Arts and Design
Civic and Community Engagement
Internships
Leadership and Professional Development
“More than anything, our three weeks at London School of Economics was an opportunity to immerse ourselves in a new city and dynamic learning environment. Our classes lent us a broader perspective on global systems as we exchanged ideas with students from diverse backgrounds. While I learned so much in the classroom, I think the sense of independence and ability to get to know London so well were the most important lessons, especially as athletes who are unable to do a semester abroad.”
Kate Haffenreffer Defense/Draw #8
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SCAN TO LEARN MORE ABOUT KATE’S JOURNEY
INGRAM CENTER FOR STUDENT-ATHLETE SUCCESS Programming and Resources
• Hosts academic workshops covering reading, writing, study skills, etc.
Individual Meetings
• Assists student-athletes with academic accommodations
Study Hall • Required for all first-year studentathletes • Implemented for other student-athletes as needed Learning Services • Provides academic assessments for student-athletes
Tutoring Services • Available to all student-athletes in various settings and sizes (in-person/virtual/group) • Access to writing tutors in the Ingram Center
The Role of a Student Services Coordinator
Ensure NCAA academic eligibility In conjunction with the Athletics Compliance Department and the University Registrar
Meet with student-athletes on a regular basis
Collaborate with Educational Enhancement Unit Learning services, tutoring, academic accommodations
Serve as liaison with coaches, professors, deans, sports medicine staff Track academic progress Prepare student-athletes academically for team travel
Refer student-athletes to campus resources as needed Student Care Network, faculty advisers, Immersion Vanderbilt office, Vanderbilt libraries, etc.
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NAME, IMAGE & LIKENESS OPPORTUNITIES The Name, Image and Likeness program is dedicated to educating and empowering Commodore student-athletes to fully capitalize on NIL opportunities while preparing them for the evolving landscape beyond college. There are many ways to engage with NIL opportunities. Check out these Vandy Lacrosse players putting NIL into action!
“NIL allowed me to build a presence as an athlete at Vanderbilt, even before playing my first collegiate lacrosse game. This platform enabled me to promote women’s sports, particularly within the Commodore community, while also fostering a business mindset early in my career. Through NIL, I’ve had the opportunity to network with both small and large businesses and build meaningful connections with individuals. It has significantly boosted my confidence both on and off the field. Most importantly, the influence I’ve had on aspiring young women has been truly inspiring. Overall, NIL has been instrumental in helping me establish and grow my personal brand.”
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Shea Panzik, Attack #25 Brand Partnership with PeakX
Brooke Baker, Midfield #33
Personalized merchandise sales
“NIL provided me with the opportunity to achieve a sense of accomplishment. Opendorse offered a platform to showcase my athletic talent on the lacrosse field, while Athlete’s Thread helped me build my brand and share my name with a broader audience. Together, these experiences have empowered me to inspire the next generation of lacrosse players.”
Jaime Biskup, Attack #1 Brand partnership with Superhera
“NIL is transforming women’s sports. I’m excited to collaborate with Superhera, a brand that truly understands the needs of female athletes. Their clothing is designed for performance, with comfort, breathability, recovery support and antibacterial features. My hope is that more women leverage this incredible brand to elevate their platform at Vanderbilt. This NIL partnership allows me to uplift and empower fellow female athletes by showcasing innovative, customized gear designed to help us excel in our sport.”
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ALUMNI BOARD
Ally Carey Board Member Class of 2012
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Margaret Fee Co-Director Class of 2018
Meggie Southerland Co-Director Class of 2015
Lyle Davis Board Member Class of 1994
Melissa Hawkins Board Member Class of 2021, 2023
Chelsea Pasfield Cahill Board Member Class of 2013
Michelle Sebastian Board Member Class of 1997
ALUMNI HIGHLIGHTS
Maddie Barkate
Julie Blaze
JP Morgan, NY Investment Banking Class of 2025
South Moon Under, Buyer Class of 2019
Lyle Davis
Gwyn Devin
Carly Blue
Deloitte, Senior Manager Class of 2013
Andrea Bowers, MD Virtua Mt. Holly Hospital, Chief of Orthopaedics Class of 1999, 2004
Deirdre “Dede” Daly Ernst & Young Senior Consultant Class of 2021
LHD Consulting LLC Executive Director Class of 1994
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and CBT Instructor, New York, NY Class of 2020
CBRE, Vice President Class of 2018
Margaret Fee
Devin Fitzpatrick
Madison Foglio
Cooper Garrett
McKenna Harden
Melissa Hawkins
MacKenzie Lange
Amanda Lockwood
BlackRock, GA Asset Management Class of 2025
Megan MacGillis
Department of the Navy, Logistics Management Specialist Class of 2022
JP Morgan, NY Asset and Wealth Management Class of 2025
Alexandra Rasmussen
Permission Fitness LLC Owner & Personal Trainer Class of 2019
Tennessee School for the Blind, Teacher Class of 2021, 2023
Michelle Sebastian
Lakeshore Lacrosse, Director of Recruiting Class of 1997
Wells Fargo, Equity Sales and Trading Analyst Class of 2023
Udemy, Account Executive Class of 2017
WJAX, Reporter Class of 2020
Tennessee Titans Director, Corporate Partnership Activation Class of 2016
Kinsey Tamberrino
Netflix, Director of Agency Sales Class of 2002
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WHERE WE WORK
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WHY VANDERBILT Voices from our community
“Vanderbilt’s prestigious academics paired with athletics was a no-brainer. The city, the people, and the atmosphere were noticeable the second I stepped on campus.” — Brooke Baker
“Vanderbilt stood out to me for its top academics and amazing location, but what truly sets it apart is the team culture. The lacrosse program is both competitive and inspiring, and being surrounded by teammates who have become part of my family has made this experience unforgettable. Choosing Vanderbilt has been one of the best decisions of my life.” — Anna Taraboletti
“I chose to play lacrosse at Vanderbilt because the academic rigor is unmatched, and the coaches encouraged me to pursue my career goals.” — Elise Bialecki
“Not only is Vandy clearly a phenomenal school education-wise, but the team culture was incomparable to many other schools I looked at.” — Alexandra Rasmussen
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Haley Gochnauer, Class of 2024
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