May 18, 2005
For immediate release
Contact: Bob Lowe, SID
(336) 272-7102, x279

Greensboro, N.C. -- Greensboro College student-athletes Ron Chase and Lauren Smith have been recognized as Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Scholars for their academic and athletic excellence.

A native of Dover Del., and graduate of Polytech High School, Chase helped the 2005 GC men's lacrosse team to an 8-6 season. The junior midfielder passed for a team-leading 13 assists and netted three goals for The Pride. Chase carries a 3.3 GPA in sports and management.

Smith, a sophomore from Raleigh, N.C. and graduate of Millbrook High School, boasts a 3.34 GPA and is studying business. She was a member of the USA south tri-champion Greensboro College volleyball team. The Pride recorded a 27-10 mark in 2004. Smith recorded 384 kills for GC and earned first team all-conference honors last year.

Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Scholars are presented by Black Issues in Higher Education. College student-athletes must have at least a 3.2 grade point average and be active on their campus or in their communities to be considered for the distinction. The awards are presented to people of color and is in memory of tennis legend Arthur Ashe. 

Ashe was an NCAA champion at UCLA and later won the gentlemen's title at Wimbledon. He was deeply committed to both education and intercollegiate athletics.