Mary Gray
West Des Moines, Iowa
Class of 2021
Why did you chose Central?
Central has always felt like home. Both my parents and all of my brothers have attended Central. I actually tried not to like Central during the college search for fear of following in the shadow of my parents or brothers. However, I was always drawn back to Central and found myself comparing other schools to Central. I couldn’t be more thrilled with my college selection, and will forever be what feels like home.
Favorite professor and why?
I really enjoy Professor Summer’s enthusiasm and knowledge for her classes and Marketing. She has helped me discover that I would really like to pursue Marketing.
You’re majoring in Business Management because?
I am majoring in Business Management with an emphasis in Marketing because I have always had a desire to think outside the box for how to solve problems. I am fascinated by the emerging and existing marketing trends that make businesses appealing to consumers. Marketing allows me to be able to participate with a business and tailor to the needs of a company, while still using problem-solving and creative thinking.
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?
I am co-president of FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) with fellow track athlete, Nathan Sanders. I was also a member of the student senate for three years and I am now a student member of the Board of Trustees. I am also fortunate to have a work study at the wonderful Central College Spirit Shoppe for my fourth year in a row.
Who are your go-to musical artists?
Honestly, my music taste can vary day to day, I like a lot of genres. Before track meets, I actually prefer slow, instrumental music with artists like Josh Groban, Celine Dion, and Mumford and Sons (kind of odd I know). I also enjoy country artists like Zac Brown Band and Florida Georgia Line.
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?
I can confidently say I would not be the same person I am today without Central’s athletic program. I have become a better student because I am forced to plan ahead with practice and track meets throughout the week. I also have learned that even though I am a part of an individual sport, I have to understand success comes from having the team’s best interest in mind. I will have lifelong relationships, and have to give a shout out to my best friend and training partner Kiki Pingel because she has truly enriched my life. I may never have known her without Central and Central track.
What can you beat all of your brothers in?
As much as I want to boast athletic feats, all of my brothers are extremely athletic, so I would have to say I have them beat in these three things: Actually responding in a timely manner to my parent’s texts, making a tiramisu from scratch, and water color painting.
What sport would you play if you weren’t track?
I actually considered playing college softball before I entered my senior year of high school. I played basketball and softball in high school in addition to track, and loved the comradery and energy that softball teams provide.
Which superpower would you choose to have for yourself?
Teleportation, so I would never have to be late to anything ever again.
What’s the best advice you have ever gotten and from who?
My parents always reiterate the importance of “Trust in the Lord’s timing and lean not on my own understanding”.
Favorite TV Show
My roommate Aspen could answer this for me: Holiday Baking Championship. Actually, just about any baking show on Food Network.
What’s it like to compete for Coach Fuller?
Coach Fuller has entirely enriched my Central track experience. He is one of the most selfless, devoted, and knowledgeable coaches I have ever had. He truly encourages success first academically, spiritually and then athletically and has extremely high standards, but in an motivating way. Competing for Coach Fuller has made my Central track experience greater than I ever imagined, and I envy the athletes who get to experience his coaching for the many years to come. He is the best multi coach across all divisions.
What’s your favorite part about being a member of the Central women’s track and field team.
I love the variety of practice every day and how we work together to uplift one another. During some of our harder days, I can always count on someone, regardless of their event to be there to cheer us on. I also feel like the coaching experience I have with Coach Fuller, Coach Brenda, and Coach Sturman make me a better athlete and make me excited to go to practice every day.
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
I would love to utilize my esteemed Central College degree and work for a company in Food Marketing or management to be happy and content with my own family wherever I end up.
Favorite food from Central Market
Cook to order brisket quesadillas have yet to disappoint, and cheesecake.
Bucket list
I would love to be able to fly to Scotland for a week to have a private cooking lesson from Gordan Ramsey himself.
