Jennifer Skolaski used her talent and determination to become arguably the   greatest female swimmer at the University of Iowa.

She now is using that same combination to help others succeed.

Skolaski works full time as the early childhood coordinator for the United Way of Johnson County.

She no longer has time to swim competitively, but she does have a lifetime of memories, including being one of 10 finalists for NCAA Woman of the Year in 2005.

The award is given annually to a student-athlete who excels in academics, athletics and volunteerism.

When Skolaski wasn’t blowing by people in the pool or acing her exams in college, she was volunteering at local charities, including the Ronald McDonald House.

Her unselfishness and commitment didn’t go unnoticed.

“It was definitely the peak to my whole career,” Skolaski said of being among the 10 finalists for the award. “It was such an honor to make it to that level.”

Skolaski made it to that level by first being nominated by the UI athletic administration and then by outlasting a field that started with 51 state winners. Arizona was the only state not represented, but there was one candidate each from Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico.

Skolaski’s accomplishments in the pool include being Iowa’s first four-time NCAA qualifier. She finished her career ranked in the top 10 all-time best performers list for 11 of the 14 individual events. She also holds school records in six events and is ranked   second in three others.

But now she wants to help others do better in school and in life. Her ultimate goal is to run her own non-profit agency. Skolaski’s parents are involved in philanthropy in her hometown of Madison, Wis. They taught her and her three older sisters about the importance of giving.

“I would love to do something that makes a difference in everyday life,” Skolaski said. “They’ve always taught us whatever we give you, you give back to help people.”

— Pat Harty

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