NJCAA | Athletes of Distinction

BJ Graber Award

Devra Vierkant Receives 2000 Betty Jo Graber Award

The National Junior College Athletic Association awarded the 2000 Betty Jo Graber Female Student-Athlete of the Year to a seven-time NJCAA All-American Devra Vierkant of Utah Valley State College (Orem, Utah).

Vierkant topped off a stellar running career at UVSC as the national champion in the 3000 meters at the 2000 NJCAA Division I Track and Field Championship. In addition, Vierkant took home a silver medal in the 5000 meters and a bronze in the 1500 meters. She was a two time Region XVIII champion in the 3000 and 5000 meters, while adding a region championship in the 1500 meters to her list of accomplishments in 2000.

Vierkant also claimed a first and third place finish in the 1500 and 5000 meter, respectively, at the Chula Vista Elite JC Meet (NJCAA & California JC's) and a secon place (1500m) and first place (5000m) finish at the Mt. Sac Invitational. She finished as the national runner-up in the 1997 NJCAA Division I Cross Country Championship, coming in 10^th at that same event in 1998.

Jed Gibson, Head Track and Cross County Coach at Utah Valley State College, described Vierkant as, "a highly motivated individual with excellent leadership skills. She helps team members bring out their best performance." UVSC Athletic Director, Michael Jacobsen adds, "I am impressed by Devra's humble attitude about her many accolades and achievements. She encourages teammates to reach their potential by volunteering her time to help tutor them in their difficult classes. She has also served as a member of the Athletic Department ACT Committee (Athletes Coming Together) for two years. This committee offered many opportunities for community service, support of other athletic teams, and recognition of outstanding faculty members. Devra found time to reach these achievements and serve her community while devoting herself to her husband and five year old son.