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pioneer · noun | pi-o-neer | \ ?pi-?-'nir \
What is a pioneer? One who is first or among the earliest in any field of inquiry, enterprise or progress; to be the first to open or prepare; to take part in the beginnings of; to initiate; to be an original; to lead the way.

The University of San Francisco has been the home of many pioneers, in the classroom, on the field of competition, and throughout the world. Whether you're talking about leaders in business, government, the arts, academia, or philanthropic efforts, USF alumni have always exhibited a pioneering spirit.

Changing the world with education, innovation and passion is one of the hallmarks of the University, which produces valuable citizens across the globe who lead and inspire change while embracing the definition of a pioneer.
That spirit can also be seen in the many women who have played, coached and fostered the continuing success of the athletics programs at USF. With the help of Title IX legislation, those women have grown a program, and in turn, become a driving force in the history of the Dons.

Hear from some of the legends who have motivated generations of others and those who continue to inspire and connect through sports; from some of the first women to suit up in the Green and Gold, to those who followed their hearts to the court without even realizing the impact, to those who have translated their pioneering into a profession.

This Tuesday Testimonial collection of reflections is one in the series focusing on the pioneers of USF athletics who will be featured in "The Rise," an upcoming documentary profiling some of the greats as part of a celebration of the 45th anniversary of Title IX. "The Rise," will be seen this spring, released in conjunction with National Girls and Women in Sports Day, and airing on NBC Sports California on Feb. 1, 2018.