ATHENS, Ohio -- Ohio University graduate student Jill Theeler has been named a recipient of the Woody Hayes National Scholar-Athlete Award as the outstanding female scholar-athlete for 2002-2003 in NCAA Division II.

The award is presented by the University & Northwest Sertoma Club of Columbus. Theeler is currently pursuing master's degrees in business and sports administration at Ohio University.

"I was very honored to have been recognized," said Theeler. "The award is based on a wonderful combination of academics, athletics and service."

Theeler, a 2002 graduate of North Dakota State University, Fargo, N.D., received an NCAA Ethnic Minority & Women's Post Graduate Scholarship and was named NCAA Division II Commissioners' Association National Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year.

A sprinter, Theeler was a 19-time NCAA Division II Track & Field All-American and a member of 2002 NCAA Division II Indoor National Champion 1,600 meter relay team. She was a member of six North Central Conference (NCC) championship relay teams and a 12-time NCC individual champion.

Theeler planned and organized the annual Halloween Party for Fargo-Moorhead community children and participated in a reading program with local elementary school children and visited children at local hospitals. Theeler arranged a "Reading with the Elderly" program in Fargo, served as a mediator on a Conflict Resolution Board and co-founded the North Dakota State's Athletes in Action chapter.

Nominees must have demonstrated leadership in one or more varsity sports, excellence in an academic field or endeavor, leadership in a socially responsible organization or activity organized to serve mankind and exemplified strong moral character.