As a high school senior, John Donkersloot, class of 2011, was looking for a college that would allow him to pursue an education as a "three-dimensional person" committed to academics, athletics and the arts. That goal was fulfilled as John found Hope College to be the ideal fit for his varied interests.

An all-state high school high jumper, John was pursued by Division I university athletic programs. He chose Division III Hope determined to achieve balance in his life. His Senior year John was awarded the highest honors that can be presented to a scholar-athlete. The three-time All-American high jumper was awarded an NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship and for the second consecutive year named a Capital One first team Academic All-American.

The Phi Beta Kappa biochemistry/molecular biology major maintained a 3.90 grade point average. He also carried a philosophy minor and is an accomplished pianist. He was named the outstanding senior student-athlete in the Hope Class of 2011. He finished third in the high jump at the NCAA Division III championships as a sophomore and junior and was fourth as a senior.

"John is a very personable individual with exceptional talent and leadership qualities, and a commitment to contribute in a positive way to his campus and community," said Dr. Lynne Hendrix, Hope NCAA faculty athletic representative.

"John is a very unique individual who is able to excel at the highest levels in a variety of areas through his dedication, hard work and innate abilities and gifts," said his coach, Kevin Cole.

Donkersloot is now attending the University of Michigan Medical School.

Read more about John in our News from Hope College article.

Hope College Celebrates Its Student-Athletes
as Part of NCAA Division III Initiative

Hope College has been a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) since 1956 and Division III since its founding in 1973. The NCAA in 2010 launched an initiative in Division III that highlights its student-athletes as they excel on the athletic field, pursue their chosen field of study in the classroom, and participate in the life of their college and surrounding community. The MIAA and its member institutions are recognizing students, coaches and teams who exemplify that model.

Hope College students, teams and coaches are featured based on each of the six initiatives - Proportion, Comprehensive Learning, Passion, Responsibility, Sportsmanship and Citizenship.

Read Postings from 2011-12 School Year

Read Postings from 2010-11 School Year