Hall of Fame
Flo Labenski, a graduate of Montclair State University, possesses both BA and MA degrees. She has served the Rutgers-Newark community for 25 years, overseeing the creation and growth of the women’s athletics at the Rutgers-Newark campus.
Ms. Labenski began her career at Rutgers as a part-time physical education instructor teaching classes to all female students on the Newark campus. She became the first full-time coordinator of the women’s athletics in the athletic department in 1977. Flo completed her service to the department as the first female Associate Director and served as the Senior Women’s Administrator.
She initiated the women’s sports program and was responsible for the first varsity team programs for women at the University. Flo also had the honor of being the first coach of the women’s tennis team, which had a competitive, successful program.
In her administrative role, Flo was responsible for a number of critical areas including eligibility, academic progress, student advising, scheduling and the supervision of the coaching staff. She also served the campus as a member of campus-wide committees and represented the University at the State, Regional, and National Conferences.
Ms. Labenski has been an active participant in the New Jersey Athletic Conference, serving as president as well as chairing several sport committees. She has served as Treasurer of the NJAIAW, and was active in many professional organizations including the following: NCAA, ECAC, AIAW, NACDA, and CAANJ.
In addition to her professional responsibilities, Flo has been an active member of her community, serving on numerous civic boards and committees and continues to be involved with the women’s athletics in the state of New Jersey.
Flo Labenski has received many prestigious awards including the Collegiate Athletic Administrator of New Jersey as well as the NJ-NAGWS Administrator of the year award.
