Benedictine University Athletics

A three-sport athlete at Benedictine, Karen Maloney was a four-year captain that was chosen as the best defensive play­er for the women’s basketball team in 1978 and earned team MVP honors as a freshman.

The earliest female inductee ever, Maloney helped bring women’s athletics to the forefront at the institution, laying the groundwork for the current women’s programs. The NCAA is celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Title IX this year.

Recipient of the Benedictine Spirit Award for community out­reach, Maloney has dedicated her life to public service, serv­ing in Ukraine for seven years and Africa for an additional 10 as a physician.