Bonnie May's journey in Smith College Athletics can be described in many ways, but the one word that stands out is 'visionary'.
In 1981, May led Smith to become the first women's college to join the NCAA, ushering in a new era of elite competition.
Throughout her 40-year career, May focused on building a culture that prioritizes the process over results, establishing strong relationships, and empowering women leaders.
Her memorable coaching achievements in volleyball and softball, along with her ongoing dedication to community service, highlight her passion for making a difference.
Today, May embraces retirement with a love for life, engaging in activities such as golf, music, and creating lasting friendships.
A VISIONARY
May's journey at Smith College began in 1981 when the institution joined the NCAA, becoming the first women's college to do so.
In just her second season at Smith, May led the volleyball team to the first-ever NCAA Division III Women's Volleyball Championship.
While they faced a tough first-round match against UC San Diego, May and her team gained valuable experience and witnessed the immense support for women's sports on the West Coast.
"The gym we played in was packed, and there was a strong contingent of Smith alums in attendance to support us," May recalled.
"We didn't fare very well, losing 0-3 to UC San Diego, but we saw a whole different appreciation for the game we loved out on the West Coast. UC San Diego went on to lose to Wash U in the final that year, so we had seen and competed against one of the best teams in the country. I'm sure it's an experience we'll all remember."
The experience of competing against top-ranked teams on a national stage was a testament to the growth and progress of women's sports, and May was proud to be a part of it.
BUILDING A CULTURE
As a coach and administrator, May understood the importance of building a culture that went beyond wins and losses. She emphasized the process and encouraged her athletes to focus on setting goals and continuously improving.
"It is really difficult to keep the athletes focused on the process, however, when everyone surrounding them is focused on the end results," May said. "We talked about setting short-term and long-term goals that were focused on process, including physical skills, sports skills, mental skills, and behaviors."
May also prioritized respect and teamwork, fostering an environment where athletes understood the privilege of representing their team and institution. She worked tirelessly to help her athletes navigate the transition from high school to collegiate athletics, providing guidance and support along the way.
May's approach to coaching and mentoring was greatly influenced by Smith's mission of empowering women leaders. She encouraged her athletes to take on leadership roles not only within athletics but also in their houses, organizations, campus jobs, and classrooms.
"Smith College educates women of promise for lives of distinction and promise. Women are leading the way, and everyone is on board," May said.
DEFINING MOMENTS
May's career at Smith College was filled with defining moments and achievements. In volleyball, she led the team to the NCAA Championship in 1988, the same year they posted the best record in Smith volleyball history with a 41-4 season.
The team's success that year earned them a spot in the inaugural class of the Smith Athletics Hall of Fame in 2012.
In 2005, May guided the volleyball team to victory in the NEWMAC Championship as the fourth seed, defeating top-seeded MIT and Coast Guard to earn an automatic bid to the NCAA Championship.
In softball, May's teams achieved significant milestones as well. In 1998, they won the NEWMAC Championship by defeating Wheaton College, a team that had been a dominant force in the conference and the nation.
May fondly remembers the excitement of winning three one-run games against Wheaton that season.
Another highlight came in 2004 when the softball team won the ECAC Championship with an impressive 34-6 record.
These accomplishments were not only a testament to the skill and talent of May's athletes but also to the culture and values she instilled in her teams.
A LOVE FOR LIFE
Even in retirement, May continues to stay active and involved. She opens the Olin Fitness Center on Friday mornings, teaches pickleball for Get Fit Smith, and supervises Exercise and Sports Studies graduate students in their practicum experience.
Outside of Smith, May has discovered a love for golf and enjoys gardening, trying new recipes, and singing with a local community choir called Rock Voices.
One of May's greatest joys is riding her bike, and she has been a dedicated participant in the Pan Mass Challenge since the early 1990s. This annual bike-a-thon raises funds for cancer research, and May has raised over $155,000 throughout the years.
"It feels wonderful to know I can make a difference in the fight against cancer by doing something that I love to do," May said. "The ride supports cancer research and Dana Farber Cancer Center and the Jimmy Fund. It is a truly amazing event!"
May's commitment to giving back and making a difference in the community is a reflection of the values she instilled in her athletes throughout her career.
A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES
Reflecting on her time at Smith College, May is filled with countless memories and experiences that have shaped her journey.
From the crazy moments on team trips to the camaraderie with her colleagues, May spent a significant amount of her time smiling and laughing with her Smith Athletics family.
She cherishes the relationships she built and the impact she made on the lives of her athletes.
May's advice to today's Smith athletes is simple yet profound: "Your four years will be over before you know it. Get the most out of your time at Smith as you possibly can. Challenge yourself, broaden your horizons, and create strong and healthy relationships."
As May looks back on her career, she is grateful for the opportunities and experiences she had at Smith College. She knows that life in athletics is not easy, but it is well worth the effort and dedication.
The relationships she formed and the impact she made will last a lifetime, and she will forever be a part of the Smith Athletics family.
