Jasmyn Williams
Denver, Colo.
Class of 2026
Why did you chose Central?
I chose Central with the main intent to play Basketball here but once I visited, I fell in love with the small town, cozy feeling of the campus and the welcoming staff and knew this was the place for me to be these next four years.
Favorite professor and why?
Out of all my professors, one that has played a major factor in my educational journey as well as building the person I am in my everyday life is Prof. Tammy Strawser. Strawser was one of the most caring, understanding professors I have had who wanted me to thrive in content and character. She made class engaging, as we worked a lot with our peers and brought me out of my comfort zone in so many ways! Even to this day, whether I am a current student of hers or not, she always is checking in on me and has the brightest attitude.
You are majoring in Elementary Education because?
Ever since I was a little girl, I have always wanted to become a teacher (Yes, I know that is what everyone wants to be at the age of 7) Working with kids though, has always been a joy of mine and I couldn't imagine doing anything else. My overall goal is to give back to future generations and continue pushing for more diversity and inclusion in our classrooms!
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?
I am also competing in Track and Field during my time here..Oh wait, you said besides athletics. Besides athletics I am part of the Student Ambassador team here at Central and work to recruit incoming first-year students to campus! Other than that, I do not do much else other than schoolwork. I live in Kuyper at this point not my dorm room.
Who are your go-to musical artists?
That is a hard one. I listen to everything from Rap, R and B, Country, Pop and even a little Indie. I will have to say though two artists that will go UNMATCHED forever, Justin Bieber but like the old JB... like 2009 album old. The other one being Brent Faiyaz.
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?
Attending Central and participating in multiple sports has impacted my life for the better. It has not only given me an opportunity to get better on the court and on the track but has also allowed me to meet some of my closest friends and make memories that I will cherish forever.
Top three things about the state of Colorado?
While many automatically think about skiing and snowboarding when they hear Colorado, I have never been (I know crazy right) but three of the top things about Colorado to me is our mountains (I love hiking), the fact we are at high altitude and Coloradoans can breathe easier in other states, and that the cold is nowhere like the Midwest cold...Iowa cold is brutal I will not lie.
What do you consider the most important event of your liife so far?
I think the most important event of my life so far has been honestly moving away for college. Being far from home has taught me to appreciate so many of the little things in life as well as putting me in tough situations to learn and grow from on my own.
What is your favorite candy?
Definitely Sour Patch Kids Watermelon and Rolos.
Favorite professional athlete outside of basketball?
My favorite professional athlete outside of basketball would have to be Serena Williams. Growing up, her and Venus were always doubted being African American females in the sport of Tennis and they continue to inspire me daily that we have no limits and can accomplish just as many remarkable things and be recognized for our work!
Favorite TV Show?
I do not have a specific favorite tv show but I am a sucker for those trash love reality TV shows.... I can binge watch those for hours.
What is it like to play for Coach Lonning?
Playing for Coach Lonning has been one of the most influential experiences of my career. While Coach Lonning was not the coach who originally recruited me, I feel as though I am home with her now and I believe the world knew this is where we both needed to be. She is high energy, committed, and resilient. There is never a day that goes by where she is not always willing to watch film, rebound, or help us grow on and off the court.
What is your favorite part about being a member of Central basketball?
My favorite part about being a member of Central basketball is the community based around our program. From my teammates parents to even people in the community who support us, it gives light to the difference that I am making for this program but also, I feel so loved even when I am so far away from family. The impact that their support has on me has been lifechanging and made this such an amazing experience.
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
10 years from now I hope to either have my own classroom or counseling office and continue to be an advocate in the education system for kids. I also hope to be living with a grey Pitbull puppy and beginning my own family and life!
Favorite food from Central Market
Definitely street tacos or CTO Mongolian, I also really enjoy the CTO Avocado Toast for Breakfast:)
Bucket list
- Go to Bora Bora
- Visit Laos and Thailand to learn more about my mom’s side of my family
- Study abroad
