KINGSTON, R.I. -- April 12, 2002 -- From her days as a University of Rhode Island freshman member of the gymnastics team to her role as team captain, Kelly Labowitz, has been a natural leader.

"She has been one of the most dedicated gymnasts," said coach Chelle Kassabian. "I have had to stop her from doing so much."

Labowitz, of Bala Cynwyd Pa., will graduate this May from URI with a degree in sociology and minors in psychology and leadership studies.

A silver medallist this year on the vault at the Atlantic 10 Championships and as a sophomore in the floor exercises, she is a three-time member of the dean’s list at URI.

"Academics and athletics work hand in hand," Labowitz said during ceremonies to honor URI’s dean’s list student-athletes. "You have to keep your focus on your role as a student and as a student-athlete."

Not content with her accomplishments in the classroom and in the gym, Labowitz was president for two years of Ram Choices, a student group that educates peers about alcohol and drug abuse. She also participated in URI’s Bridges Retreat, which brings students of diverse backgrounds together to enhance understanding and cooperation, and served as a gymnastics coach over the summers.

"Through these activities, I’ve learned that different groups can come together and get involved to benefit the entire student body," she said. "I met a lot of great people and got a great education."

While her career plans are up in the air, she would like to work for a corporation that has family friendly policies, or help develop such policies at companies that don’t have them.

For Information: Dave Lavallee 401-874-2116