Tribal member Gwendolen McGinnis graduated magna cum laude last month from the University of Tampa with a Bachelor of Science in allied health, a concentration in medical science, and minors in exercise and sports studies and chemistry.
She appreciates the support from the Choctaw of Oklahoma throughout her college education.
McGinnis was a four-year starter on the softball team and an accomplished athlete. As a junior, she was conference pitcher of the year, all-conference and an NFCA (National Fastpitch Coaches’ Association) All-American. That year, her team finished as the national runner-up. As a senior, she earned conference pitcher of the year, all-conference first team, D2CCA regional pitcher of the year, first team All-American and national pitcher of the year honors. She was also named an NFCA All-American and national pitcher of the year in her senior year.
McGinnis was also a finalist for the 2026 Honda DII Athlete of the Year award.
She plans to take a gap year before pursuing further education in the medical field.