Hall of Fame
1985-2001 // WESTERN ILLINOIS (ADMINISTRATOR)
Dr. Helen Smiley was one of the most influential administrators in league history with a career that spanned across three decades. The Dr. Helen Smiley Women’s All-Sports Award is annually presented to the school with the most combined points in all league-sponsored women’s sports. In 2000, Smiley earned the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA)/Continental Airlines Athletic Director of the Year award. Smiley was named Western Illinois’ Director of Women’s Athletics in 1985 before assuming the role as Director of Athletics from 1994 through her retirement in 2001. Throughout her tenure, Smiley helped guide the league and served on several committees for the NCAA, including the Mideast Advisory Committee from 1996-99, and NACDA.
