SAN DIEGO -- This past week, San Diego State Athletics hosted the SDSU Athletics Women’s Fund Luncheon. It was another successful day bringing together student-athletes, coaches, alumni, and community partners to recognize the people and programs driving the success of women’s sports at SDSU.
The fund launched in 2022 as part of the 50th anniversary of Title IX celebrations, and continues to champion equity, opportunity, and advancement across all women’s Division I programs. This event reflects the fund’s growing impact while highlighting three exceptional award recipients whose contributions and leadership have boosted SDSU women’s athletics.
“This year’s luncheon was a powerful reminder of how true leadership is defined by lifting up others,” said Jenny Bramer, SDSU Deputy Athletic Director. “From Coach Nuveman’s example of developing strong women through sport, to Sydney Gish’s dedication to service and growth, and to President de la Torre’s unwavering advocacy for opportunity, each honoree represents the ripple effect of empowerment that drives SDSU Athletics forward. Together, they show that when women rise, entire communities rise with them.”
As the Aztec Impact on Women in Sports Award recipient, Stacey Nuveman Deniz spotlights women's athletics via accomplishment, leadership, and mentoring. Given to a representative of SDSU who has provided significant contributions to the advancement of women through sports.
Nuveman Deniz, who is a member of the Olympic Hall of Fame and a three-time Olympian, has coached at SDSU for 17 seasons. As head coach, she has won two Mountain West Coach of the Year awards, led the Aztecs to their first-ever NCAA Super Regional, and led the team to four Mountain West championships. Her teams have continuously placed among the best in the country, demonstrating her dedication to both development and excellence.
Beyond her record of success, Nuveman Deniz is known for her deep connection with her players and her passion for helping them thrive off the field. She has mentored athletes who have achieved more than 80 all-conference honors during her tenure, and she continues to represent SDSU and the sport through her involvement with USA Softball and professional leagues.
Sydney Gish, a senior attacker for SDSU water polo, was honored with the SDSU Athletics Women’s Fund Rising Star award for her leadership, initiative, and lasting impact throughout SDSU Athletics. Given to a student who exemplifies professional growth and demonstrates an exceptional commitment to positively impacting SDSU Athletics.
A Golden Coast Conference Honorable Mention selection and multiple-time academic award recipient, Gish has excelled as both a student-athlete and an emerging professional. She has worked with Aztecs Going Pro, NIL, People and Culture, and the Women’s Fund, contributing to student development, content creation, and event planning that highlight student-athlete achievement.
Her commitment to excellence and service has made her an invaluable part of SDSU Athletics and a true example of what it means to utilize opportunities.
President Adela de la Torre received the SDSU Athletics Women’s Fund CHAMPION award. Presented to a donor to the Women’s Fund who provided substantial support while celebrating women in sports, de la Torre provided personal financial investment, leadership awareness, attendance at events, and role modeling.
Her leadership and initiative in championing the SDSU Women’s Fund continue to leave an impact on the female student-athletes. The president's efforts have built a lasting foundation that will allow many future Aztecs to succeed in their academic and athletic careers.
President Adela de la Torre has shared, “My deepest core values - hard work, perseverance and the value of education - were shaped from my youth by the guidance and support of strong women who raised and mentored me. Their fingerprints are on every success I’ve had and I’m committed to doing the same for generations of women to follow.”
Please consider making a gift to the San Diego State Women's Fund to celebrate our female student-athletes' accomplishments and to position the Aztecs for even greater success in women's sports in the years ahead. For more information, visit the Women's Fund webpage and make a gift today.