Washington University in St. Louis
Washington University in St. Louis proudly announces that its Women’s Outdoor Track and Field Team, which won the national championship on May 25, 2024, had the distinguished honor of visiting the White House on July 22, 2024. They were recognized alongside other national championship teams.
WashU’s first outdoor track and field national championship came in 2017. The university currently boasts 25 team national championships.
“A surreal experience as our Women’s Track & Field program was showcased in the nation’s capital alongside other 2023-2024 National Champions from all NCAA divisions,” said Associate Vice Chancellor & Director of Athletics Anthony Azama. “We are very grateful to the W Club for making this trip possible.”
The team’s journey to the national championship is a testament to their dedication, perseverance, and exceptional focus throughout the season. Under the guidance of Associate Track and Field Head Coach Ray Williams, the team demonstrated outstanding athleticism, hard work, determination, and a commitment to excellence, culminating in their triumphant performance at the national meet.
During the White House visit, the team had the unique opportunity to stand alongside Vice President Kamala Harris and other distinguished guests, celebrating their success with other collegiate champions. The visit included a tour of the White House and a special ceremony honoring the achievements of the nation’s top collegiate athletes.
“Following a season marked by unwavering dedication and persistence that ultimately led us to clinch a national championship, I couldn’t be prouder of our team,” said junior Yasmin Ruff. “Every member gave their all, making numerous sacrifices to reach our goal. Winning the championship was a monumental achievement in itself, but being invited to the White House was the perfect cherry on top of our triumph.”
Coach Ray Williams added, “I am very pleased with the support from our administration, friends, and families who contributed to our Scholar-Champions’ ability to participate. Vice President Harris said it well: ‘Wherever you all go from here, you will always—and know this—be champions, and we will always be so proud of you’.”
The Women’s Outdoor Track and Field Team’s national championship victory and subsequent White House recognition highlight the W Club’s impact on the student-athletes’ experience.
Washington University in St. Louis Athletics’ vision is to provide the nation’s foremost experience combining excellence in academics, athletics, and recreation. We are committed to providing student-athletes with opportunities to become and graduate as scholar-champions.