March 28, 2007

Spartanburg, S.C. - The Southern Conference announced that eight student-athletes from Furman University have been named to the TIAA-CREF Academic All-Conference team for the 2006-07 winter season. A total of 118 student-athletes representing all Southern Conference institutions and associate member VMI were named to the team.

To be eligible, a student-athlete must have at least a 3.2 cumulative grade point average entering the spring of 2007 and have competed in at least half of their team's competitions during the winter. The 118 student-athletes averaged a 3.59 grade point average on a 4.0 scale.

The Furman women's basketball team had four individuals earn academic honors. Senior Jessica Lange (3.95, Health & Exercise Science) and sophomores Sarah Baker (3.50, Communications), Melissa Liebschwager (3.31, Health & Exercise Science) and Maggie McKemie (3.76, Undecided) were each recognized for their classroom excellence. The Lady Paladin track & field team also had four honorees. Juniors Page Bridges (3.97, Chemistry), Mo Campbell (3.92, History & Asian Studies), Rebecca Mullen (3.56, Psychology) and Holly Stewart (3.21, Undecided) were all named to the winter team.

This is the fourth year that the Southern Conference has named an All-Academic Team by season. The all-academic teams are made possible by a grant from the Southern Conference's Education Partner, TIAA-CREF.

For over 85 years, TIAA-CREF has been helping millions of people working in the academic, medical and cultural fields plan for their retirement. Our clear and long-held commitment to serve those who dedicate themselves to the benefit and enlightenment of others remains unchanged.