Following an exceptional year of achievement both in the classroom and on the field, Brookdale Community College standout Jillian Fay has been named the NJCAA Region 19 John Stauff Female Student-Athlete of the Year. Fay’s selection comes as no surprise, given her remarkable record of leadership, integrity, and commitment to excellence in every facet of campus life.

A true scholar-athlete, Fay maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA while earning numerous academic honors, including First Team NJCAA All-Academic, All-Region Academic Team, All-GSAC Academic Team, repeated placement on the Dean’s List, and induction into the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.

On the diamond, Fay’s impact has been equally impressive. She was named Region 19 Softball Player of the Year and GSAC Softball Player of the Year, while also securing spots on the First All-Region Team and First All-GSAC Team. Her dominance culminated in national recognition as an NJCAA First Team All-American.

Beyond her academic and athletic excellence, Fay distinguished herself as a campus leader through her service on the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). She played an instrumental role in initiatives that strengthened Brookdale’s connection to the community, including a campus-wide food drive benefiting the Nutrition Hub, a spirited dodgeball tournament and Toys for Tots fundraiser, and a celebratory brunch honoring National Girls & Women in Sports Day.

The John Stauff Award recognizes student-athletes in NJCAA Region XIX who embody the highest standards of academic achievement, athletic excellence, and community service. To qualify, honorees must hold at least a 3.5 GPA with 36 credits, achieve recognition at the conference, regional, or national level, and demonstrate meaningful service through campus or community involvement.

“Jillian is the epitome of what it means to be a Brookdale Jersey Blue,” said Katelyn Amundson, Director of Athletics and Recreation. “Her dedication to her studies, her sport, and her community has set an extraordinary example for her teammates and peers.”

With her latest accolade, Fay cements her place as one of Brookdale’s most decorated student-athletes, leaving a legacy of excellence that extends far beyond the softball field.