Tenley Grant BA’25 finds her voice as an advocate for student-athletes
By Paul McKean; Photos by Mario Gallucci MFA'14
For Tenley Grant BA'25, Willamette has been a place where everything connects. Whether she's breaking Hammer Throw records as a Track & Field star, building connections with faculty and staff, or leading conversations about mental health, Tenley has been a fearless champion for her fellow student-athletes.
"Willamette encourages connection and collaboration that help shape you into the person who can take the lead and shape your own path," Tenley says. "The inclusive environment provides you the space to be your true, authentic self."
Throughout her time at Willamette, Tenley has been a leader within the athletics community. As Co-President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, Tenley spoke out on behalf of her teammates on issues that affect student success. She organized events to build connections among students across different sports. She also had memorable experiences attending conferences at the NCAA headquarters, where her voice reached nationwide decision-makers. The common theme across these experiences was the importance of connection.
"All of the opportunities and growth I have experienced have been through the connections with staff, faculty, and students," Tenley says. "I have had many mentors who have guided me, opened so many doors, and given me a platform to speak on."
Two of those mentors in particular set a powerful example for Tenley. "Assistant Professor of Public Health Nicole Iroz-Elardo showed me how to think critically and not let barriers hold me back," Tenley says. "Former Associate Athletics Director Leslie Shevlin gave me space to hear my voice, and then she amplified it. Both of these women inspired me to be loud and determined."
When it came time to decide on a thesis topic for her Public Health major, Tenley knew she wanted to take on an issue that could help make a difference for her fellow students. She chose to tackle student-athlete mental health by studying the Willamette population.
Tenley's desire to use her studies to help others is rooted in her understanding of the Willamette motto: Not unto ourselves alone are we born.
"The motto reminds me that I can't go it alone and shouldn't want to," Tenley says. "To make the change that I want to make on this Earth and in my community, I must work with others. Working with others to build a better tomorrow is how you create change and foster it."
Tenley's next step is to continue her advocacy of student-athletes in a Master of Education program studying Intercollegiate Athletic Leadership at the University of Washington. Even as she leaves Willamette, she won't forget the people who have made her college journey memorable.
"Willamette allowed me to meet the people I know will be in my life forever," Tenley says. "Thank you to my past and present teammates; my four best friends who are more like sisters to me; and my coaches, professors, and bosses — all of you have made this experience feel like a dream!"
What were some of the highlights of your time at Willamette?
- Achieving Top Ten on the WU Women's Hammer Record, USTFCCCA ALL-region, and Northwest Conference All-Conference (1st Team)
- Serving as Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) Co-President and Northwest Conference SAAC President
- Working as a Program Assistant in the Office of Intercultural Engagement and Inclusion
- Working on issues of student mental health as a JED student representative