As a student-athlete at New Mexico State University, Molly Kaiser believes success doesn't happen only on the court – it also happens inside the classroom. Her hard work, countless hours of dedication and perseverance have led her to recognition as the 2023-2024 Conference USA Scholar Athlete of the Year, representing NM State Women's Basketball.
The award recognizes the top student-athletes in each conference-sponsored sport based on their academic achievements, athletic performance, and community involvement. Kaiser is pursuing a master of business administration with a concentration in finance and business computer information systems, and is working toward a May 2025 graduation.
"Excelling both in the classroom and the community is crucial, especially considering my background," Kaiser said. "Coming from West Africa, I understand the importance of making the most of every opportunity presented to me. It's vital to show that I am more than just an athlete; I am a well-rounded individual capable of achieving greatness in various fields.
"This award is not just a personal achievement, but also a reflection of the unwavering support from my coaches, professors, and family," she added. "It's a reminder that hard work truly pays off and motivates me to continue striving for excellence in all areas of my life."
Kaiser is entering the final year of her MBA degree. She said balancing rigorous academic commitments with the demands of being a student-athlete requires immense discipline and time management.
"The support and resources provided by the College of Business have equipped me with essential skills and knowledge that extend beyond the basketball court," she said. "The faculty's dedication to my academic success, combined with the practical experiences gained through internships and networking opportunities, have prepared me for a successful career post-graduation.
"The rigorous curriculum and hands-on projects have deepened my understanding of the business world and technology's role in it," she added. "The College of Business has instilled in me a strong work ethic and a passion for continuous learning, which I will carry with me as I transition into the professional world."
Erin Blaugrund, Kaiser's faculty advisor and a professor of marketing, said Kaiser is a diligent student who puts 100% effort into her academics as well as her athletics.
"As a College of Business student, Molly represents the best of our student population," Blaugrund said. "She is sharp and inquisitive about many subjects and is not afraid to ask questions. She embodies what we want all of our business students to aspire to represent."
Many have watched Kaiser stand out on the court, leading the NM State Women's Basketball team in several offensive statistics and surpassing 1,000 career points in her senior season. She recently received her bachelor's degree in business administration with a 3.88 grade-point average. She also is active within the Las Cruces community, which she values as an important asset after graduation.
"One day, the ball may stop bouncing, and when that happens, I need to have built a strong foundation through education and community engagement," she said. "This holistic approach not only opens doors for future career opportunities but also allows me to give back and inspire others from similar backgrounds to aim high and realize their full potential."
Kaiser said the support she's received from her coaches, professors, and family has been invaluable on her journey to success, and she's committed to using this recognition as a platform to inspire and mentor others – especially young athletes from underrepresented communities.
"To my fellow student-athletes, remember that your identity is not solely defined by your athletic abilities. Embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with being a student-athlete," she said. "Prioritize your education, as it is the key to unlocking a future filled with endless possibilities. Stay disciplined, manage your time wisely, and seek support when needed.
"Your hard work in the classroom will pay off, and you will be better prepared for life beyond sports," she continued. "Always strive to be the best version of yourself, both on and off the court, and never underestimate the power of a strong academic foundation."
The full article can be seen at https://newsroom.nmsu.edu/news/nmsu-mba-student-athlete-molly-kaiser-named-c-usa-scholar-athlete-of-the-year/s/89a4c3ce-8de6-41bf-9bd9-74a0fc44a8e5
