Carolyn Vanacore, Connecticut – 2007

Carolyn Vanacore, Connecticut – 2007

In 1995, Carolyn Vanacore developed a coaching certification course for the National High School Coaches’ Association in preparation for a National Convention in Hartford.  This course provided a unified and consistent means of certifying high school coaches throughout the country.

Among Carolyn’s honors are the CAHPERD Professional Merit Award, YMCA Women in Leadership Award, Yale Visiting Faculty Fellowship, YMCA Outstanding Volunteer Service Award, CT Association of Athletic Directors Distinguished Service Award, Lyman Hall High School Hall of Fame, Eastern District (AAHPERD) Merit Award in Physical Education, and the National Girls and Women in Sports Pathfinder Award.

By leading and participating in a wide variety of professional groups, Carolyn has shared her expertise.  These organizations include: Chair of the Governor’s Committee on Physical Fitness, CT Physical Education Advisory Committee for Subject Area Testing, President of CAHPERD, and Director of the SCSU COOP Teacher Program.

Since retiring, Carolyn has participated in several efforts to assist Southern Connecticut State University students.  One of these programs is the SCSU Women’s Association Carolyn Vanacore Emergency Loan Fund which assists students who do not have the means to support their education.  Most recently, Carolyn has spearheaded efforts to increase scholarship opportunities for Southern’s female athletes through another program titled “Stand Up and Be Counted.”

Carolyn recommends that “young players, coaches, and referees all be fair, be consistent, and be positive as they pursue their interests and dreams in sports.”