Biography:
Dr. Christine Grant, a national pioneer and voice in the fight for gender equity in athletics, passed away Friday, Dec. 31 at the age of 85. Born in Scotland, she had a passion for field hockey, playing and coaching the sport in both her native country and Canada before coming to the University of Iowa to continue her education. Her time at Iowa would have a profound impact on her life and the landscape of women’s sports.
In pursuit of her passion for physical education, Grant earned her bachelor’s degree in the field at Iowa in 1969, followed by a master’s degree in 1970. Not content with stopping there, she went on to earn her Ph.D. in sports administration in 1974. Grant was not only a dedicated student, but she also excelled as an athlete and coach. Her experiences on the field gave her a unique perspective and understanding of the challenges women face in sports.
Three years after completing her Ph.D., Grant made history by becoming the first director of women’s intercollegiate athletics at the University of Iowa. This marked a significant step forward in the push for gender equity in college sports. Under her leadership, the women’s athletic department flourished, and Iowa’s men’s and women’s athletic departments eventually merged into one.
Grant, however, was not content with merely building a successful department at Iowa. She recognized the need for greater change in the realm of women’s sports and became a leading advocate for gender equity. She played a pivotal role in the implementation of Title IX, the federal legislation that mandated equal opportunities for all in athletics and academics. Grant served as a consultant for the Civil Rights Title IX Task Force, contributing her expertise and tirelessly pushing for progress.
Through her dedication and hard work, Grant helped open the door of opportunity for countless female athletes. Under her watch, 12 Hawkeye programs combined to win an impressive 27 Big Ten championships. This success on the field was a testament to Grant’s commitment to providing equal opportunities and resources to women in sports.
One of the crowning achievements of Grant’s career came in 1993 when Iowa’s women’s basketball team advanced to the NCAA Final Four. This historic achievement not only showcased the talent and determination of the athletes but also drew national attention to the progress made in women’s sports. Iowa’s women’s basketball team also set a national record with a crowd of 22,157 fans attending a game against Ohio State.
Grant’s dedication and impact earned her numerous awards and recognitions throughout her distinguished career. However, one accolade stands out as a symbol of the respect and admiration others had for her. In 2007, she was presented with the Gerald R. Ford Award, an honor that recognized her as a preeminent and passionate leader in women’s sports. Myles Brand, the president of the NCAA at the time, praised her courage and character, stating that Grant and others like her broke down barriers and created opportunities for female student-athletes.
Grant’s influence extended far beyond the borders of Iowa and the Big Ten conference. She was a founding member of the Association of Intercollegiate Athletics for Women and held various leadership roles within the organization. Grant also served on the board of directors of the National Association of Collegiate Women Athletic Administrators, where she championed gender equity. Her tireless advocacy and commitment to advancing women’s sports helped shape the landscape of college athletics for generations to come.
Dr. Christine Grant’s impact on the world of women’s sports cannot be overstated. Her lifelong dedication to gender equity and her unwavering pursuit of equality have left an indelible mark. She will forever be remembered as a trailblazer, a role model, and a champion for women in athletics.
Awards:
– Gerald R. Ford Award