SCHOLAR ATHLETE: HANNAH PLAPPERT ’16

Ask Hannah Plappert ’16, a tri-captain of this year’s field hockey team, to name one of her greatest accomplishments and there’s no hesitation: “Last year our team had one of the highest GPAs in Division III field hockey. It shows we’re working for common goals—to win games and to thrive at college. I’m definitely proud of that.”

An economics major, Plappert is also pursuing a certificate in social, cultural, and critical theory. “It’s liberal arts,” she explains. “It emphasizes different ways to conceptualize situations across disciplines.”

Additionally, being part of this team opens her up to other areas of academics. “We all meet at the field and rehash what happened in our days. It’s a phenomenal family.”

Character building, as taught by Coach Patti Klecha-Porter, is key for Plappert. “After a loss, she’ll say, ‘Yes, you lost. That team was better today. What did you learn? What can you do better? Now, move on.’ She teaches us to play to our strengths and know our weaknesses as we work to improve.”

Plappert was particularly cognizant of these lessons last summer. An intern at Argus Information and Advisory Services (“a consulting firm founded by Wesleyan grads—a welcoming environment where they trusted me with a lot of responsibility,” she notes) Plappert powered through a steep learning curve. “I had the right tools to problem solve in unfamiliar territory,” she says, adding, “I’m looking forward to going on in that field after Commencement.”

Klecha-Porter notes that Plappert was selected to play in the 2015 Division III collegiate senior game. “A gifted athlete, Hannah treated playing as a privilege and always gave 100 percent. A true leader, her positive attitude, passion, and joy made others love the sport, too.”