Hall of Fame
Teacher. Role Model. National pacesetter for women's athletics and matriarch of Northern Illinois program. Namesake for NIU's Mary M. Bell Field in softball (dedicated in 1998) and one of five Huskie Hall of Famers honored on campus facilities (Bob Brigham Field at Huskie Stadium, "Chick" Evans Field House, Ralph McKinzie Field, and Bud Nangle Press Box at stadium). Instrumental in formation of state AIAW (1970). Chaired IAIAW and served on Midwest AIAW board. Named national president of Officiating Services Area, officiated in three sports, and edited national softball rule book (1951). Created student association with United States Field Hockey Association. Began NIU career in physical education and as director of Women's Recreation Association (1957). Coached six sports?badminton, basketball, field hockey, softball, swimming, and volleyball and five HOFers (Laura Cooper, Erika Fischer, Ruth Fender, Gayle Luehr, and Jean Pankonin). Posted 95-90 cage record (1957-77) including Huskie quintet that beat five Big Ten schools, won AIAW Midwest title, and reached Elite Eight in AIAW nationals en route to 15-3 season (1971-72). Produced best winning pct. (.747) in Northern Illinois history as softball coach (71-24 in 1959-72). Inducted into Illinois State Hall of Fame (1982). Played four sports at ISU (1943-47). Recipient of honor award from National Association for Girls and Women in Sport (1984). Named "Outstanding Woman in Field" (1974). Career goal at Burnside (IA) High: Coach.
