The Triangle

Issue date: 9/20/07 Section: News

"I used the co-op experience to work in the corporate communications field, but interned at night at Philadelphia television stations," McKendry said. "Throughout my sophomore and junior years, I'd bounce back and forth between WTXF and KYW working for free in their sports departments. I'd jump on the El and take it to the stations every day. The dedication paid off and I landed a producer job for Group W my senior year. At that point, Coach Laura White encouraged me to follow my career path. I will never forget the support she offered. She represents what every NCAA coach and educator should be."

White described McKendry's work ethic.

"She worked very, very hard," White said. "You don't get to where she is unless you're doing what you love to do. She found the major she loved to be in. As an intern, you work. There is no financial gain in that business until you paid your dues. She is such a great role model for young women who want to do that. She has paved that way for other women."

McKendry broke through in a field that is incredibly demanding for anyone to succeed in, let alone women.

Despite her success, she has not forgotten her roots as she returns to campus on occasion to talk to students aspiring to enter the field.

"I stay connected as best I can," she said. "I follow the basketball team like a hawk. I drop Drexel's name on SportsCenter shamelessly and was all over the NCAA Selection committee last March. I also swing by Abner's on occasion and that always brings me back."

"I also remember with great fondness the entire athletic community. My older brother was on the men's soccer team. I was instantly accepted, made many friends and learned then that the athletes were each other's cheerleaders. My best friends to this day are two teammates from the tennis team. They keep me grounded and dreaming all at the same time."

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