The team at Washburn McGoldrick is incredibly proud to share the news that our colleague Karin L. George was inducted into the Smith College Athletics Hall of Fame in a special ceremony on November 8, 2025.

Karin who has been with the Washburn McGoldrick team for over 20 years, was a member of the first Smith College cross-country team to qualify for Division III National Championships in 1984. Smith which is celebrating its 150th Anniversary, was the first women’s college to join the NCAA in 1976. This amazing group of athletes finished their record-breaking season sixth in the nation.

Please join us in recognizing and celebrating our colleague Karin who continues to enjoy her passion for women’s athletics and running wherever she goes on her many travels!

1984 Cross Country Team

The 1984 Smith College Cross Country Team delivered the most outstanding season in program history, earning a sixth-place finish at the NCAA Division III National Championships and solidifying its place among the nation’s elite. Under the leadership of Coach Mary Grinaker, the team dominated the season from start to finish.

They won the prestigious Seven Sisters Championship—continuing a six-year undefeated streak in that meet—and claimed first place at both the Coast Guard Invitational and the NCAA Division III Eastern Regional Qualifying Meet. The team also recorded top-10 finishes at the ECAC Division III Championship and the New England Championships, showcasing their consistency against top regional competition.

At the National Championship meet, Gwyn Hardesty turned in a remarkable performance, finishing third overall and earning All-America honors. She also won the ECAC DIII Championship and placed second at the national qualifier. Teammate Kirsten Kannengieser also earned All-America recognition, placing eighth at nationals after winning the Seven Sisters individual title earlier in the season. Their remarkable performances and team depth propelled Smith into national prominence.