![\"Jackie](\"https:\/\/www.rochester.edu\/adv\/alumni-news-media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Jackie-Blackett-Photo-600w.jpg\")
Jackie Blackett \u201981<\/p><\/div>\n
For more than four decades, Jackie Blackett \u201981\u2014a Columbia University coach and athletics administrator\u2014has been a driving force in women\u2019s sports and athletics management. In recognition of her achievements, the University of Rochester inducted Blackett into its Athletics Hall of Fame in the fall of 2023.<\/p>\n
\u201cThroughout her life, Blackett has redefined excellence,\u201d says Terry Gurnett, associate director of Athletics. \u201cWhen she was a collegiate runner, she set records. As a Rochester cross country and track & field coach, she led the Yellowjackets to their best-ever NCAA track & field finish in 1989. Remarkably, seven of the eight women\u2019s cross country and track & field members of the Rochester Hall of Fame competed under Blackett\u2019s leadership.\u201d<\/p>\n
During her 30-year career at columbia, Blackett has played a pivotal role in the athletic department\u2019s senior management, steering the success of more than 5,000 student athletes. Wearing multiple hats as deputy athletics director, senior woman administrator, and deputy Title IX coordinator, she oversees crucial programs and ensures compliance with University policies.<\/p>\n
Blackett\u2019s foray into sports started unexpectedly, when a friend invited her to a track and field meeting during the first few weeks of her first year on campus. \u201cMuch to my surprise, that meeting was held in the men\u2019s locker room,\u201d she recalls. \u201cThat\u2019s the first time I met Coach Hale, who told us that if we were serious about running to come see him the next day.\u201d<\/p>\n
Blackett and her friends were serious and did go back to Coach Hale. Encouraged by him and the men\u2019s team, they competed in as many events as they could. Over the years, the number of events increased and, then, in 1978 the women\u2019s varsity team was officially established. \u201cCoach Hale ended up paving the way for us,\u201d she says. \u201cHis support truly marked the beginning of an unforeseen path for me and others.\u201d<\/p>\n
Here, Blackett talks about her life and career in sports.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column width=”2\/3″][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n
What was it like being inducted into Rochester\u2019s Athletics\u2019 Hall of Fame?<\/strong><\/h3>\nIt was humbling. Initially, I thought others were more deserving, but a former teammate reminded me that I represented a group of women who may not have the opportunity to be individually inducted into the Hall of Fame. I came to realize that this honor wasn\u2019t just about me; it was about the early days of the sport and\u00a0 the women who sacrificed to build a women\u2019s cross country and track & field program.<\/p>\n
What was your childhood like?<\/strong><\/h3>\nI grew up in Barbados, which was part of the British educational system. Students earned points for academics, community service, and athletics. That\u2019s when I discovered I had some talent in running and netball. After emigrating to the US at 13, I attended an all-girls high school in Brooklyn, where I didn\u2019t play sports\u2014I did take up dancing though, which I still love.<\/p>\n
Why Rochester?<\/strong><\/h3>\nI came to Rochester to be a teacher. I was on track to be one and then, immediately following my senior year, I received a call for the athletic director at RIT who was looking for a part-time coach for their women\u2019s program. I took the job as an opportunity to give back to students what I had gained from the sport.<\/p>\n
Did you know you were making history at Rochester?<\/strong><\/h3>\nAbsolutely not. Back in the late 1970s, making history was far from my mind. Without a women\u2019s varsity team, I was, along with my teammates, simply track & field athlete who entered several events. It wasn\u2019t until senior year, qualifying for nationals, that I realized the significance of what I was doing.<\/p>\n
What might surprise people to know about you?<\/strong><\/h3>\nI never really liked running, but I really loved competing. Ask any of my former coaches, training was never my forte. I did what was necessary to do well in an event.<\/p>\n
What are some memories of your time at Rochester?<\/strong><\/h3>\nThe lifelong friends that allowed me grow. On the track, I remember deliberately keeping one shoe slightly untied during our daily mile warm-up so I had to strategically stop to re-tie them. Coach would shout, \u201cCan\u2019t you keep your shoes tied?\u201d There was also the perpetual struggle of being fashionably late to practice due to General Hospital ending at the same time that practice started. I remember the bubble chairs in Wilson Commons, too, which, by the way, aren\u2019t there anymore. We spent a lot of time in those chairs solving the world\u2019s problems.<\/p>\n
What do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities in sports today?<\/strong><\/h3>\nIn D1 collegiate sports, we\u2019re at a turning point, grappling with questions about our identity, educational value, and the purpose of athletics. The recent spotlight on NIL\u2014Name, Image, and Likeness\u2014in televised congressional hearings caught my attention. This NCAA rule allows students to earn from their personal brand. Despite its complexity, one thing became clear to me: high school and collegiate sports mattered to every senator who spoke during those hearings. As someone deeply involved in NCAA and Division 1 governance issues, I know that these are conversations that will determine the future of sports.<\/p>\n
What are you most proud of?<\/strong><\/h3>\nI take pride in two things. Firstly, the Hall of Fame ceremony, where my great nephews witnessed a different side of me and had the chance to glimpse the value of life’s work. Secondly, when former students bring their own children back to campus, it tells me that they had an experience that was so positive it\u2019s worth sharing with their children.<\/p>\n
What makes today\u2019s generation of students and athletes stand out?<\/strong><\/h3>\nTheir grit and determination to make a difference. This generation wants to be part of the decision-making process. Even if they don\u2019t have all the info, they want to have a voice if it involves them. They want a say in the process.<\/p>\n
What are you reading right now?<\/strong><\/h3>\nI\u2019m currently reading Legacy<\/em><\/a> by James Kerr, which delves into the story of New Zealand\u2019s All Blacks, the world\u2019s most successful rugby team. I work long and late office hours, so my reading time is limited, but Kerr\u2019s book always accompanies me in my bag. For a more leisurely escape, I turn to Walter Mosley, an American novelist who writes a lot of crime fiction revolving around a Black private investigator\u2014I love his work.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/3″][vc_column_text]![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.rochester.edu\/adv\/alumni-news-media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/Blackett001_600w.jpg\")
[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_gallery interval=”3″ images=”76522,76532,76542,76552,76562,76572,76582″ img_size=”full” disable_navigation_arrows=”yes” show_navigation_controls=”yes”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” use_row_as_full_screen_section_slide=”no” text_align=”left” background_color=”#e9e5d7″ css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\nJackie Blackett \u201981<\/b><\/h3>\n
Major<\/u>: Psychology<\/p>\n
College highlights<\/u>: 11 indoor and 9 outdoor school records, four All-East awards at the 1981 Eastern Indoor Track & Field Championships<\/p>\n
Job title<\/u>: Deputy Athletics Director, Physical Education & Recreation\/Senior Woman Administrator at Columbia University<\/p>\n
Hometown<\/u>: New York, NY<\/p>\n
Explore Jackie Blackett\u2019s college running career and her coaching accomplishments at Rochester<\/i><\/a>.<\/i><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_empty_space image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” use_row_as_full_screen_section_slide=”no” text_align=”left” background_color=”#00205b” background_image=”77132″ css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n
Support Women in Sports<\/b><\/h3>\n
For more than 50 years, the University of Rochester has provided distinctive opportunities for women to excel competitively and be strong leaders and teammates. Our new Women in Sports\u2014WinS\u2014initiative<\/a> honors this and celebrates Rochester\u2019s educationally purposeful athletics programs. Please join us. With your engagement and support, we can reach our goals and create a sustainable future for our programs. Contact Terry Gurnett<\/a>, associate director of Athletics, or Victoria Bothner<\/a>, associate director of Advancement, to learn how you can get involved.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1701806041312{border-top-width: 1px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;border-top-color: #999999 !important;border-top-style: solid !important;}”]<\/p>\n
\u2014Kristine Kappel Thompson, Winter 2024<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
For more than four decades, Jackie Blackett \u201981\u2014a Columbia University coach and athletics administrator\u2014has been a driving force in women\u2019s sports and athletics management. In recognition of her achievements, the University of Rochester inducted Blackett into its Athletics Hall of Fame in the fall of 2023. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":62,"featured_media":76792,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[22,142],"tags":[272,322,212,922,652],"class_list":["post-76142","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-profiles","category-stories","tag-alumni","tag-athletics","tag-new-york-city","tag-stories","tag-women-who-roc"],"yoast_head":"\n
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I grew up in Barbados, which was part of the British educational system. Students earned points for academics, community service, and athletics. That\u2019s when I discovered I had some talent in running and netball. After emigrating to the US at 13, I attended an all-girls high school in Brooklyn, where I didn\u2019t play sports\u2014I did take up dancing though, which I still love.<\/p>\n
Why Rochester?<\/strong><\/h3>\nI came to Rochester to be a teacher. I was on track to be one and then, immediately following my senior year, I received a call for the athletic director at RIT who was looking for a part-time coach for their women\u2019s program. I took the job as an opportunity to give back to students what I had gained from the sport.<\/p>\n
Did you know you were making history at Rochester?<\/strong><\/h3>\nAbsolutely not. Back in the late 1970s, making history was far from my mind. Without a women\u2019s varsity team, I was, along with my teammates, simply track & field athlete who entered several events. It wasn\u2019t until senior year, qualifying for nationals, that I realized the significance of what I was doing.<\/p>\n
What might surprise people to know about you?<\/strong><\/h3>\nI never really liked running, but I really loved competing. Ask any of my former coaches, training was never my forte. I did what was necessary to do well in an event.<\/p>\n
What are some memories of your time at Rochester?<\/strong><\/h3>\nThe lifelong friends that allowed me grow. On the track, I remember deliberately keeping one shoe slightly untied during our daily mile warm-up so I had to strategically stop to re-tie them. Coach would shout, \u201cCan\u2019t you keep your shoes tied?\u201d There was also the perpetual struggle of being fashionably late to practice due to General Hospital ending at the same time that practice started. I remember the bubble chairs in Wilson Commons, too, which, by the way, aren\u2019t there anymore. We spent a lot of time in those chairs solving the world\u2019s problems.<\/p>\n
What do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities in sports today?<\/strong><\/h3>\nIn D1 collegiate sports, we\u2019re at a turning point, grappling with questions about our identity, educational value, and the purpose of athletics. The recent spotlight on NIL\u2014Name, Image, and Likeness\u2014in televised congressional hearings caught my attention. This NCAA rule allows students to earn from their personal brand. Despite its complexity, one thing became clear to me: high school and collegiate sports mattered to every senator who spoke during those hearings. As someone deeply involved in NCAA and Division 1 governance issues, I know that these are conversations that will determine the future of sports.<\/p>\n
What are you most proud of?<\/strong><\/h3>\nI take pride in two things. Firstly, the Hall of Fame ceremony, where my great nephews witnessed a different side of me and had the chance to glimpse the value of life’s work. Secondly, when former students bring their own children back to campus, it tells me that they had an experience that was so positive it\u2019s worth sharing with their children.<\/p>\n
What makes today\u2019s generation of students and athletes stand out?<\/strong><\/h3>\nTheir grit and determination to make a difference. This generation wants to be part of the decision-making process. Even if they don\u2019t have all the info, they want to have a voice if it involves them. They want a say in the process.<\/p>\n
What are you reading right now?<\/strong><\/h3>\nI\u2019m currently reading Legacy<\/em><\/a> by James Kerr, which delves into the story of New Zealand\u2019s All Blacks, the world\u2019s most successful rugby team. I work long and late office hours, so my reading time is limited, but Kerr\u2019s book always accompanies me in my bag. For a more leisurely escape, I turn to Walter Mosley, an American novelist who writes a lot of crime fiction revolving around a Black private investigator\u2014I love his work.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/3″][vc_column_text][\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_gallery interval=”3″ images=”76522,76532,76542,76552,76562,76572,76582″ img_size=”full” disable_navigation_arrows=”yes” show_navigation_controls=”yes”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” use_row_as_full_screen_section_slide=”no” text_align=”left” background_color=”#e9e5d7″ css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\nJackie Blackett \u201981<\/b><\/h3>\n
Major<\/u>: Psychology<\/p>\n
College highlights<\/u>: 11 indoor and 9 outdoor school records, four All-East awards at the 1981 Eastern Indoor Track & Field Championships<\/p>\n
Job title<\/u>: Deputy Athletics Director, Physical Education & Recreation\/Senior Woman Administrator at Columbia University<\/p>\n
Hometown<\/u>: New York, NY<\/p>\n
Explore Jackie Blackett\u2019s college running career and her coaching accomplishments at Rochester<\/i><\/a>.<\/i><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_empty_space image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” use_row_as_full_screen_section_slide=”no” text_align=”left” background_color=”#00205b” background_image=”77132″ css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n
Support Women in Sports<\/b><\/h3>\n
For more than 50 years, the University of Rochester has provided distinctive opportunities for women to excel competitively and be strong leaders and teammates. Our new Women in Sports\u2014WinS\u2014initiative<\/a> honors this and celebrates Rochester\u2019s educationally purposeful athletics programs. Please join us. With your engagement and support, we can reach our goals and create a sustainable future for our programs. Contact Terry Gurnett<\/a>, associate director of Athletics, or Victoria Bothner<\/a>, associate director of Advancement, to learn how you can get involved.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1701806041312{border-top-width: 1px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;border-top-color: #999999 !important;border-top-style: solid !important;}”]<\/p>\n
\u2014Kristine Kappel Thompson, Winter 2024<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
For more than four decades, Jackie Blackett \u201981\u2014a Columbia University coach and athletics administrator\u2014has been a driving force in women\u2019s sports and athletics management. In recognition of her achievements, the University of Rochester inducted Blackett into its Athletics Hall of Fame in the fall of 2023. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":62,"featured_media":76792,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[22,142],"tags":[272,322,212,922,652],"class_list":["post-76142","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-profiles","category-stories","tag-alumni","tag-athletics","tag-new-york-city","tag-stories","tag-women-who-roc"],"yoast_head":"\n
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Absolutely not. Back in the late 1970s, making history was far from my mind. Without a women\u2019s varsity team, I was, along with my teammates, simply track & field athlete who entered several events. It wasn\u2019t until senior year, qualifying for nationals, that I realized the significance of what I was doing.<\/p>\n
What might surprise people to know about you?<\/strong><\/h3>\nI never really liked running, but I really loved competing. Ask any of my former coaches, training was never my forte. I did what was necessary to do well in an event.<\/p>\n
What are some memories of your time at Rochester?<\/strong><\/h3>\nThe lifelong friends that allowed me grow. On the track, I remember deliberately keeping one shoe slightly untied during our daily mile warm-up so I had to strategically stop to re-tie them. Coach would shout, \u201cCan\u2019t you keep your shoes tied?\u201d There was also the perpetual struggle of being fashionably late to practice due to General Hospital ending at the same time that practice started. I remember the bubble chairs in Wilson Commons, too, which, by the way, aren\u2019t there anymore. We spent a lot of time in those chairs solving the world\u2019s problems.<\/p>\n
What do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities in sports today?<\/strong><\/h3>\nIn D1 collegiate sports, we\u2019re at a turning point, grappling with questions about our identity, educational value, and the purpose of athletics. The recent spotlight on NIL\u2014Name, Image, and Likeness\u2014in televised congressional hearings caught my attention. This NCAA rule allows students to earn from their personal brand. Despite its complexity, one thing became clear to me: high school and collegiate sports mattered to every senator who spoke during those hearings. As someone deeply involved in NCAA and Division 1 governance issues, I know that these are conversations that will determine the future of sports.<\/p>\n
What are you most proud of?<\/strong><\/h3>\nI take pride in two things. Firstly, the Hall of Fame ceremony, where my great nephews witnessed a different side of me and had the chance to glimpse the value of life’s work. Secondly, when former students bring their own children back to campus, it tells me that they had an experience that was so positive it\u2019s worth sharing with their children.<\/p>\n
What makes today\u2019s generation of students and athletes stand out?<\/strong><\/h3>\nTheir grit and determination to make a difference. This generation wants to be part of the decision-making process. Even if they don\u2019t have all the info, they want to have a voice if it involves them. They want a say in the process.<\/p>\n
What are you reading right now?<\/strong><\/h3>\nI\u2019m currently reading Legacy<\/em><\/a> by James Kerr, which delves into the story of New Zealand\u2019s All Blacks, the world\u2019s most successful rugby team. I work long and late office hours, so my reading time is limited, but Kerr\u2019s book always accompanies me in my bag. For a more leisurely escape, I turn to Walter Mosley, an American novelist who writes a lot of crime fiction revolving around a Black private investigator\u2014I love his work.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/3″][vc_column_text][\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_gallery interval=”3″ images=”76522,76532,76542,76552,76562,76572,76582″ img_size=”full” disable_navigation_arrows=”yes” show_navigation_controls=”yes”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” use_row_as_full_screen_section_slide=”no” text_align=”left” background_color=”#e9e5d7″ css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\nJackie Blackett \u201981<\/b><\/h3>\n
Major<\/u>: Psychology<\/p>\n
College highlights<\/u>: 11 indoor and 9 outdoor school records, four All-East awards at the 1981 Eastern Indoor Track & Field Championships<\/p>\n
Job title<\/u>: Deputy Athletics Director, Physical Education & Recreation\/Senior Woman Administrator at Columbia University<\/p>\n
Hometown<\/u>: New York, NY<\/p>\n
Explore Jackie Blackett\u2019s college running career and her coaching accomplishments at Rochester<\/i><\/a>.<\/i><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_empty_space image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” use_row_as_full_screen_section_slide=”no” text_align=”left” background_color=”#00205b” background_image=”77132″ css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n
Support Women in Sports<\/b><\/h3>\n
For more than 50 years, the University of Rochester has provided distinctive opportunities for women to excel competitively and be strong leaders and teammates. Our new Women in Sports\u2014WinS\u2014initiative<\/a> honors this and celebrates Rochester\u2019s educationally purposeful athletics programs. Please join us. With your engagement and support, we can reach our goals and create a sustainable future for our programs. Contact Terry Gurnett<\/a>, associate director of Athletics, or Victoria Bothner<\/a>, associate director of Advancement, to learn how you can get involved.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1701806041312{border-top-width: 1px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;border-top-color: #999999 !important;border-top-style: solid !important;}”]<\/p>\n
\u2014Kristine Kappel Thompson, Winter 2024<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
For more than four decades, Jackie Blackett \u201981\u2014a Columbia University coach and athletics administrator\u2014has been a driving force in women\u2019s sports and athletics management. In recognition of her achievements, the University of Rochester inducted Blackett into its Athletics Hall of Fame in the fall of 2023. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":62,"featured_media":76792,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[22,142],"tags":[272,322,212,922,652],"class_list":["post-76142","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-profiles","category-stories","tag-alumni","tag-athletics","tag-new-york-city","tag-stories","tag-women-who-roc"],"yoast_head":"\n
From Unexpected Runner to Hall of Famer: Jackie Blackett \u201981 - Alumni News<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rochester.edu\/adv\/alumni-news-media\/2023\/12\/05\/from-unexpected-runner-to-hall-of-famer-jackie-blackett-81\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"From Unexpected Runner to Hall of Famer: Jackie Blackett \u201981 - Alumni News\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"For more than four decades, Jackie Blackett \u201981\u2014a Columbia University coach and athletics administrator\u2014has been a driving force in women\u2019s sports and athletics management. 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The lifelong friends that allowed me grow. On the track, I remember deliberately keeping one shoe slightly untied during our daily mile warm-up so I had to strategically stop to re-tie them. Coach would shout, \u201cCan\u2019t you keep your shoes tied?\u201d There was also the perpetual struggle of being fashionably late to practice due to General Hospital ending at the same time that practice started. I remember the bubble chairs in Wilson Commons, too, which, by the way, aren\u2019t there anymore. We spent a lot of time in those chairs solving the world\u2019s problems.<\/p>\n
What do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities in sports today?<\/strong><\/h3>\nIn D1 collegiate sports, we\u2019re at a turning point, grappling with questions about our identity, educational value, and the purpose of athletics. The recent spotlight on NIL\u2014Name, Image, and Likeness\u2014in televised congressional hearings caught my attention. This NCAA rule allows students to earn from their personal brand. Despite its complexity, one thing became clear to me: high school and collegiate sports mattered to every senator who spoke during those hearings. As someone deeply involved in NCAA and Division 1 governance issues, I know that these are conversations that will determine the future of sports.<\/p>\n
What are you most proud of?<\/strong><\/h3>\nI take pride in two things. Firstly, the Hall of Fame ceremony, where my great nephews witnessed a different side of me and had the chance to glimpse the value of life’s work. Secondly, when former students bring their own children back to campus, it tells me that they had an experience that was so positive it\u2019s worth sharing with their children.<\/p>\n
What makes today\u2019s generation of students and athletes stand out?<\/strong><\/h3>\nTheir grit and determination to make a difference. This generation wants to be part of the decision-making process. Even if they don\u2019t have all the info, they want to have a voice if it involves them. They want a say in the process.<\/p>\n
What are you reading right now?<\/strong><\/h3>\nI\u2019m currently reading Legacy<\/em><\/a> by James Kerr, which delves into the story of New Zealand\u2019s All Blacks, the world\u2019s most successful rugby team. I work long and late office hours, so my reading time is limited, but Kerr\u2019s book always accompanies me in my bag. For a more leisurely escape, I turn to Walter Mosley, an American novelist who writes a lot of crime fiction revolving around a Black private investigator\u2014I love his work.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/3″][vc_column_text][\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_gallery interval=”3″ images=”76522,76532,76542,76552,76562,76572,76582″ img_size=”full” disable_navigation_arrows=”yes” show_navigation_controls=”yes”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” use_row_as_full_screen_section_slide=”no” text_align=”left” background_color=”#e9e5d7″ css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\nJackie Blackett \u201981<\/b><\/h3>\n
Major<\/u>: Psychology<\/p>\n
College highlights<\/u>: 11 indoor and 9 outdoor school records, four All-East awards at the 1981 Eastern Indoor Track & Field Championships<\/p>\n
Job title<\/u>: Deputy Athletics Director, Physical Education & Recreation\/Senior Woman Administrator at Columbia University<\/p>\n
Hometown<\/u>: New York, NY<\/p>\n
Explore Jackie Blackett\u2019s college running career and her coaching accomplishments at Rochester<\/i><\/a>.<\/i><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_empty_space image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” use_row_as_full_screen_section_slide=”no” text_align=”left” background_color=”#00205b” background_image=”77132″ css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n
Support Women in Sports<\/b><\/h3>\n
For more than 50 years, the University of Rochester has provided distinctive opportunities for women to excel competitively and be strong leaders and teammates. Our new Women in Sports\u2014WinS\u2014initiative<\/a> honors this and celebrates Rochester\u2019s educationally purposeful athletics programs. Please join us. With your engagement and support, we can reach our goals and create a sustainable future for our programs. Contact Terry Gurnett<\/a>, associate director of Athletics, or Victoria Bothner<\/a>, associate director of Advancement, to learn how you can get involved.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1701806041312{border-top-width: 1px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;border-top-color: #999999 !important;border-top-style: solid !important;}”]<\/p>\n
\u2014Kristine Kappel Thompson, Winter 2024<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
For more than four decades, Jackie Blackett \u201981\u2014a Columbia University coach and athletics administrator\u2014has been a driving force in women\u2019s sports and athletics management. In recognition of her achievements, the University of Rochester inducted Blackett into its Athletics Hall of Fame in the fall of 2023. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":62,"featured_media":76792,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[22,142],"tags":[272,322,212,922,652],"class_list":["post-76142","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-profiles","category-stories","tag-alumni","tag-athletics","tag-new-york-city","tag-stories","tag-women-who-roc"],"yoast_head":"\n
From Unexpected Runner to Hall of Famer: Jackie Blackett \u201981 - Alumni News<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rochester.edu\/adv\/alumni-news-media\/2023\/12\/05\/from-unexpected-runner-to-hall-of-famer-jackie-blackett-81\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"From Unexpected Runner to Hall of Famer: Jackie Blackett \u201981 - Alumni News\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"For more than four decades, Jackie Blackett \u201981\u2014a Columbia University coach and athletics administrator\u2014has been a driving force in women\u2019s sports and athletics management. 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I take pride in two things. Firstly, the Hall of Fame ceremony, where my great nephews witnessed a different side of me and had the chance to glimpse the value of life’s work. Secondly, when former students bring their own children back to campus, it tells me that they had an experience that was so positive it\u2019s worth sharing with their children.<\/p>\n
What makes today\u2019s generation of students and athletes stand out?<\/strong><\/h3>\nTheir grit and determination to make a difference. This generation wants to be part of the decision-making process. Even if they don\u2019t have all the info, they want to have a voice if it involves them. They want a say in the process.<\/p>\n
What are you reading right now?<\/strong><\/h3>\nI\u2019m currently reading Legacy<\/em><\/a> by James Kerr, which delves into the story of New Zealand\u2019s All Blacks, the world\u2019s most successful rugby team. I work long and late office hours, so my reading time is limited, but Kerr\u2019s book always accompanies me in my bag. For a more leisurely escape, I turn to Walter Mosley, an American novelist who writes a lot of crime fiction revolving around a Black private investigator\u2014I love his work.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/3″][vc_column_text][\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_gallery interval=”3″ images=”76522,76532,76542,76552,76562,76572,76582″ img_size=”full” disable_navigation_arrows=”yes” show_navigation_controls=”yes”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” use_row_as_full_screen_section_slide=”no” text_align=”left” background_color=”#e9e5d7″ css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\nJackie Blackett \u201981<\/b><\/h3>\n
Major<\/u>: Psychology<\/p>\n
College highlights<\/u>: 11 indoor and 9 outdoor school records, four All-East awards at the 1981 Eastern Indoor Track & Field Championships<\/p>\n
Job title<\/u>: Deputy Athletics Director, Physical Education & Recreation\/Senior Woman Administrator at Columbia University<\/p>\n
Hometown<\/u>: New York, NY<\/p>\n
Explore Jackie Blackett\u2019s college running career and her coaching accomplishments at Rochester<\/i><\/a>.<\/i><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_empty_space image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” use_row_as_full_screen_section_slide=”no” text_align=”left” background_color=”#00205b” background_image=”77132″ css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n
Support Women in Sports<\/b><\/h3>\n
For more than 50 years, the University of Rochester has provided distinctive opportunities for women to excel competitively and be strong leaders and teammates. Our new Women in Sports\u2014WinS\u2014initiative<\/a> honors this and celebrates Rochester\u2019s educationally purposeful athletics programs. Please join us. With your engagement and support, we can reach our goals and create a sustainable future for our programs. Contact Terry Gurnett<\/a>, associate director of Athletics, or Victoria Bothner<\/a>, associate director of Advancement, to learn how you can get involved.<\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1701806041312{border-top-width: 1px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;border-top-color: #999999 !important;border-top-style: solid !important;}”]<\/p>\n
\u2014Kristine Kappel Thompson, Winter 2024<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
For more than four decades, Jackie Blackett \u201981\u2014a Columbia University coach and athletics administrator\u2014has been a driving force in women\u2019s sports and athletics management. In recognition of her achievements, the University of Rochester inducted Blackett into its Athletics Hall of Fame in the fall of 2023. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":62,"featured_media":76792,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[22,142],"tags":[272,322,212,922,652],"class_list":["post-76142","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-profiles","category-stories","tag-alumni","tag-athletics","tag-new-york-city","tag-stories","tag-women-who-roc"],"yoast_head":"\n
From Unexpected Runner to Hall of Famer: Jackie Blackett \u201981 - Alumni News<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rochester.edu\/adv\/alumni-news-media\/2023\/12\/05\/from-unexpected-runner-to-hall-of-famer-jackie-blackett-81\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"From Unexpected Runner to Hall of Famer: Jackie Blackett \u201981 - Alumni News\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"For more than four decades, Jackie Blackett \u201981\u2014a Columbia University coach and athletics administrator\u2014has been a driving force in women\u2019s sports and athletics management. 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I\u2019m currently reading Legacy<\/em><\/a> by James Kerr, which delves into the story of New Zealand\u2019s All Blacks, the world\u2019s most successful rugby team. I work long and late office hours, so my reading time is limited, but Kerr\u2019s book always accompanies me in my bag. For a more leisurely escape, I turn to Walter Mosley, an American novelist who writes a lot of crime fiction revolving around a Black private investigator\u2014I love his work.[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/3″][vc_column_text] Major<\/u>: Psychology<\/p>\n College highlights<\/u>: 11 indoor and 9 outdoor school records, four All-East awards at the 1981 Eastern Indoor Track & Field Championships<\/p>\n Job title<\/u>: Deputy Athletics Director, Physical Education & Recreation\/Senior Woman Administrator at Columbia University<\/p>\n Hometown<\/u>: New York, NY<\/p>\n Explore Jackie Blackett\u2019s college running career and her coaching accomplishments at Rochester<\/i><\/a>.<\/i><\/p>\n [\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_empty_space image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” use_row_as_full_screen_section_slide=”no” text_align=”left” background_color=”#00205b” background_image=”77132″ css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n For more than 50 years, the University of Rochester has provided distinctive opportunities for women to excel competitively and be strong leaders and teammates. Our new Women in Sports\u2014WinS\u2014initiative<\/a> honors this and celebrates Rochester\u2019s educationally purposeful athletics programs. Please join us. With your engagement and support, we can reach our goals and create a sustainable future for our programs. Contact Terry Gurnett<\/a>, associate director of Athletics, or Victoria Bothner<\/a>, associate director of Advancement, to learn how you can get involved.<\/p>\n [\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1701806041312{border-top-width: 1px !important;padding-top: 10px !important;border-top-color: #999999 !important;border-top-style: solid !important;}”]<\/p>\n \u2014Kristine Kappel Thompson, Winter 2024<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n [\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" For more than four decades, Jackie Blackett \u201981\u2014a Columbia University coach and athletics administrator\u2014has been a driving force in women\u2019s sports and athletics management. In recognition of her achievements, the University of Rochester inducted Blackett into its Athletics Hall of Fame in the fall of 2023. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":62,"featured_media":76792,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[22,142],"tags":[272,322,212,922,652],"class_list":["post-76142","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-profiles","category-stories","tag-alumni","tag-athletics","tag-new-york-city","tag-stories","tag-women-who-roc"],"yoast_head":"\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_gallery interval=”3″ images=”76522,76532,76542,76552,76562,76572,76582″ img_size=”full” disable_navigation_arrows=”yes” show_navigation_controls=”yes”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row row_type=”row” use_row_as_full_screen_section=”no” type=”grid” text_align=”left” css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column][vc_row_inner row_type=”row” type=”full_width” use_row_as_full_screen_section_slide=”no” text_align=”left” background_color=”#e9e5d7″ css_animation=”” box_shadow_on_row=”no”][vc_column_inner][vc_empty_space height=”25px” image_repeat=”no-repeat”][vc_column_text]<\/p>\nJackie Blackett \u201981<\/b><\/h3>\n
Support Women in Sports<\/b><\/h3>\n