In a League of Her Own

For Carol Kashow ’77, the opportunity to play softball at West Chester State College amounted to more than a trip to the national tournament in her senior year.

Carol’s 41-year career in athletics began when her former coach, Betty Boyle, called her about a job opportunity at Drexel University.

“I coached two sports and taught classes at the collegiate level at the ripe old age of 23,” Carol says.

“West Chester provided me with a great foundation, and Betty cared enough to tell someone that I would be a good choice. It wouldn’t have happened if she didn’t pick up the phone and say, ‘Apply,’ because if your coach tells you to do something, you do it.”

After retiring from 12-hour days in the classroom and weekend competitions, Carol took the time to reflect on what was important to her — giving back rose to the top of the list.

Joining the Alumni Association Board of Directors, she seized the opportunity to serve on the Scholarship Committee as a way to pay it forward to students like her.

Reviewing applications gave Carol insight into the varying backgrounds of WCU students. “I finished my career at the City University of New York, where a lot of students are first generation, like I was.” she says.

“It’s a balance. West Chester should continue to support those who have excelled already, and those who have the potential to excel.”

Working with the Foundation, Carol and her spouse, Hallie Cohen, established a planned gift to create the Coach Betty Boyle Softball Endowment & Kashow/Cohen Family Softball Endowed Scholarship.

As members of the George Morris Philips Society, their legacy represents a commitment to WCU students for years to come.

“If you had a great experience like I did, this is a wonderful investment.”