Empire 8 Emerging Leaders Series: Shannon Blankenship, SUNY Brockport

General | 10/9/2024 12:48:23 PM

Shannon Blankenship is set to begin her fourth season as a member of the SUNY Brockport women's basketball team in 2024-25. She serves as President of SUNY Brockport's Student Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC) and enters the upcoming season with career totals of 194 points, 162 rebounds, 48 assists and 45 steals.

A native of Cleveland, OH, Blankenship, in addition to being SAAC President at SUNY Brockport, is also a member of Lambda Pi Eta Honors Society, an Editor-in-Chief of The Stylus, SUNY Brockport's online and print student-run news source and a peer mentor.

 
Shannon Blankenship - Empire 8 Emerging Leader
 

Institution: SUNY Brockport
Sport: Women's Basketball
SAAC Role: SUNY Brockport President
Major: Journalism and Broadcasting
GPA: 3.7

Community Service Projects:
Community Leaf Raking, Walk a Child to School, Christmas Holiday Drive, Teddy Bear Toss

Who is a Leader Who Has Made an Impact on You and Why?
My dad has had the biggest impact on me. He instilled in me at a young age that my voice and actions reflect who I am. From then on, I understood the importance of being a leader.

What Type of Leader Are You?
I am a passionate and dedicated leader. I work hard to make sure that the people around me know that I care about the goal we are trying to achieve and the people themselves.

What Makes a Great Leader?
Someone who communicates and listens adjusts to adversity and creates an environment where people feel comfortable being vulnerable.

What Is a Leader's Best Asset?
Self-awareness. 

What Makes Leadership Difficult?
Understanding the importance of delegating.

What Does Leadership Look Like in a Team Setting?
Being able to listen to the peple around you and adjust to the needs of the group.

Interesting or Exciting Internships You Have Done or Are Currently Working On:
Last summer I was an intern at WROC Channel 8.

What Do You Aspire to See Yourself Doing in 10-15 Years?
I see myself working for ESPN as a broadcast journalist.

What Are You Most Looking Forward To This Season, Both Athletically and in SAAC?
I'm most looking forward to making the best of every moment. With one year left, I want to give everything I have left to give.

Favorite Athletic Memory from Your Time at SUNY Brockport:
Hosting playoffs last season.

Favorite thing about the Empire 8:
It's a very welcoming environment that cares about its student-athletes beyond what's written in the books at the end of the competition.

How Has Playing in the Empire 8 Prepared You for Life After College?
As is in any game, I've learned to be ready and adjust along the way.

Advice to Incoming Student-Athletes or Younger Teammates?
Being a collegiate athlete is the best job you will ever have. So, learn as much as you can, meet as many people as you can and take advantage of every opportunity you're given.
 

E8 Dozen

1. Favorite Professional Athlete: LeBron James
2. Favorite Professional Team: Cleveland Cavaliers
3. Favorite Movie: Collateral Beauty
4. Last TV Show You Binge Watched: Friends
5. Favorite Ice Cream Flavor: Mint Chocolate Chip
6. Last Vacation You Went On: Charlotte, NC
7. Dream Vacation Spot: Maldives
8. Favorite Singer/Artist: Rihanna
9. If You Could Have Any Super Power, What Would It Be?: Telekenisis
10. Fun-Fact About You: I'm from Cleveland, OH
11. Favorite Animal: Lion
12. Dream Job: Sports Broadcast Journalist

ABOUT THE EMPIRE 8 CONFERENCE
The members of the Empire 8 Conference are committed first and foremost to the pursuit of academic excellence and the league is regarded as an outstanding NCAA Division III conference. The membership has distinguished itself among its peer group for its quality institutions, spirited and sportsmanlike competition, outstanding services and highly ethical policies and practices. Its commitment to serve the educational needs of its student-athletes is the hallmark of the E8. For more on the Empire 8 visit www.empire8.com.
 
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