WEST HAVEN, Conn. – University of New Haven women's track and field alumna Ivy Watts has been named one of 30 finalists for the 2015 NCAA Woman of the Year Award.

Ten nominees each from Division I, Division II and Division III were selected as finalists. The top 30 honorees reflect the pillars of the Woman of the Year award: outstanding achievements in academics, athletics, community service and leadership. Watts was selected as a finalist following an NCAA record 480 nominations by individual schools for the honor. 

"This year marks the 25th celebration of the Woman of the Year program, and these women continue the tradition of being the best and brightest in college sports," said Shantey Hill, chair of the selection committee and assistant vice president and senior director of athletics of St. Joseph's College (Long Island). "This year's top 30 honorees are outstanding examples for women competing in sports at any level, and we are confident that they will continue to make a difference in the world for many years to come."

Previously named the 2015 Northeast-10 Conference Co-Woman of the Year, Watts Watts recently graduated with a 3.98 GPA in psychology. She received the 2014-15 Female Distinguished Scholar Athlete Award in March from the New Haven faculty. On the track, she holds or is a part of five Charger records and this past winter earned All-America honors in the 4x400 relay.

The 2015 NCAA Woman of the Year will be announced in an October 18 ceremony at the NCAA headquarters in Indianpolis, Ind.