Sep 24, 2019

Dr. Claire Watson (left in photo), founding director of the university's public health program, and Dr. Paula Scraba, associate professor of physical education, have been awarded a mini-grant from the United Way of Cattaraugus County to assist with Girls in Sports Day and a Healthy Athlete Program at St. Bonaventure.

The presentation was made Friday, Sept. 20, at the second annual Girls in Sports Day, an opportunity for area girls age 9 to 12 to meet college female athletes and try various sports. On hand for the presentation were Rob DeFazio, director of the university's Center for Activities, Recreation and Leadership, and a United Way Board member; and Susan McAuley, United Way director.

Scraba, Watson and their SBU student volunteers were praised for their work in organizing Girls in Sports Day. "I was blown away by the incredible support offered by our students to work with girls ages 9-12," said Dr. Sheri Voss, visiting professor and director of the graduate literacy education programs.

"Hats off to Sister Paula Scraba for her amazing coordination and leadership in providing an opportunity for girls to experience several sports that they otherwise may know little about," said Voss. "And kudos to Dr. Claire Watson for her special talk to parents about nutrition for young girls."