Provo, Utah – Meghan Hunter, a talented middle-distance runner from BYU, has been recognized as a Big 12 Conference nominee for the prestigious NCAA Woman of the Year award. This nomination highlights her incredible journey and achievements, particularly in light of her resilience following a serious vehicle accident that left her with a broken neck.
Hunter, who is a senior, has not only returned to the track but has excelled, becoming a two-time first-team All-American. In June of this year, she showcased her skills by finishing 22nd in the 800-meter race at the U.S. Olympic Trials. Her story goes beyond just athletics; it encapsulates the spirit of determination and recovery.
The NCAA Woman of the Year program, established in 1991, honors the academic and athletic achievements, community service, and leadership qualities of graduating female college athletes across all three NCAA divisions. To qualify for this nomination, an athlete must have played a varsity sport and completed their undergraduate degree by the summer of 2024. In fall 2024, 30 honorees—10 from each division—will be named, and a selection committee will decide the top nine finalists in late 2024.
This year, Hunter, along with Oklahoma softball player Alyssa Brito, has moved on to the next phase of the award voting after being selected by the Big 12 Conference. Hunter graduated in April 2023 with a degree in communications disorders, and she is currently pursuing a master’s degree in speech and language pathology, aiming to graduate in April 2025. She is set to compete in her final collegiate track seasons during the upcoming 2025 indoor and outdoor events.
Earlier this year, Hunter was also a finalist for the Honda Inspiration Award, given to a female student-athlete who has faced significant physical or emotional challenges, yet remained dedicated to returning to sports. Her journey from a devastating accident to achieving her collegiate running dreams inspires many and shines a light on her remarkable character and tenacity.
