Roth Named Servant Leader
Susquehanna women’s basketball player Julia Roth ’26 is one of just 61 athletes nationwide to be named a Kay Yow Servant Leader for the 2025–26 season. Recipients are individuals of remarkable character who selflessly prioritize others, embodying grace, humility, courage and strength.
“Julia has been a tremendous role model within our community, especially through our youth camps, where she is continuously giving back,” says women’s basketball Head Coach Gabby Holko. “She shows up with enthusiasm and a genuine smile, inspiring so many young girls who may fall in love with basketball because of her. Her perseverance, compassion and unwavering dedication to her team and community reflect the legacy of service, selflessness and love that this award was created to honor.”
The Kay Yow Servant Leader Award celebrates the enduring legacy of Kay Yow, head coach of the North Carolina State University women’s basketball team and past president and founding member of the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association. She bravely battled breast cancer for 22 years while inspiring others to create positive change.
“Julia exemplifies the values that Coach Yow stood for,” Holko adds. “Julia has faced significant adversity, tearing her ACL twice. Instead of allowing this setback to define her, she demonstrated remarkable resolve by staying committed to being the best teammate and leader she could possibly be. She continued to serve and support her program with grace, embodying the spirit of selflessness by putting her teammates’ needs before her own.”
Roth says she was dismayed to learn she was the first Susquehannan bestowed this distinction.
“I am so honored to receive this award,” Roth says. “Coach told me I am the first recipient in Susquehanna women’s basketball history, which is absolutely insane to me because there are so many people here that I have looked up to as amazing leaders.”
Nominated by their coaches, these leaders reflect Coach Yow’s spirit and dedication, making a meaningful impact in the fight against cancer by improving lives and offering hope. Awardees wear a patch on their jersey throughout the season as recognition of this honor.
