Aug. 28, 2001

INDIANAPOLIS - Former UNLV cross country and track and field standout Katie Barto has been selected as the NCAA's Woman of the Year for the state of Nevada, the NCAA announced on Tuesday.

As the state winner, Barto is one of 51 honorees and becomes eligible for the organization's Woman of the Year award. The NCAA selection committee will narrow the field to 10 finalists on Friday, Sept. 7 and announce the winner at an awards dinner at the Indiana Roof Ballroom in Indianapolis on Sunday, Oct. 21.

"Katie is an outstanding student and an outstanding lady," UNLV track and field head coach Karen Dennis said. "With so many different programs and athletes in the NCAA, anytime you can be recognized, it is truly an honor."

The award honors outstanding female student-athletes who have excelled in academics, athletics and community leadership and have completed their collegiate athletics eligibility.

Barto, a native of Henderson and a graduate of Green Valley High School, qualified for the NCAA Championship in both cross country and track and field last season. A three-time academic all-conference selection and a member of the Dean's List, she carries a 3.35 grade point average and should earn her bachelor's degree in biology in December.