Southern Illinois University's Alex Cimera and Olivia Herron have been honored as the recipients of the Missouri Valley Conference's Dr. Charlotte West Scholar-Athlete Award. Recognized for their outstanding combination of academic excellence, athletic achievement, and leadership, both athletes stood out among a competitive field of nominees. Cimera, a two-time All-MVC First Team member, holds multiple records and has been a consistent leader within SIU athletics. Herron, a two-time All-American, concludes her collegiate career with numerous championships and honors, solidifying her legacy in MVC history.

By the Numbers
  • Cimera holds the MVC overall and championship record in the 200-medley relay and has a perfect 4.00 GPA.
  • Herron is a 12-time MVC Champion and a four-time Academic All-American, holding four MVC overall records.
Yes, But

While both athletes excelled in their respective fields, challenges remain for future student-athletes to meet the high standards set by Cimera and Herron in both academics and athletics.

State of Play
  • Both Cimera and Herron are prominent figures in SIU athletics and serve as role models for future generations.
  • The MVC continues to recognize and reward excellence among student-athletes, highlighting the importance of a balanced collegiate experience.
What's Next

With Cimera and Herron graduating, they may explore opportunities in competitive swimming or pursue further academic and professional endeavors, potentially influencing future generations of athletes.

Bottom Line

The recognition of Cimera and Herron underscores the importance of student-athlete development, combining academic rigor with athletic excellence and strong community involvement.