UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Charlene Morett-Curtiss, who received a bachelor of science in health and physical education from Penn State in 1979, has received the 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award.
Morett-Curtiss is a highly respected coach and leader in women’s athletics with a long and distinguished career at Penn State. She served as the head coach of the Penn State women’s field hockey team for 36 years, leading the Nittany Lions to multiple Big Ten Championships and NCAA tournament appearances, including several final four berths. She also earned numerous Big Ten Coach of the Year honors.
The former two-time Olympian, 1984 Bronze Medalist in field hockey has been recognized for her significant contributions to the sport of field hockey and women’s athletics, having been inducted into the U.S. Field Hockey, Philadelphia and Pennsylvania Athletics halls of fame.
Morett-Curtiss' coaching philosophy focused on empowering athletes both on and off the field. Her teams became known for their high performance, teamwork and academic success.
In addition to her coaching achievements, Morett-Curtiss is the founder and leader in the launch of "Teammates for Life," a new initiative from Penn State Women's Athletics aimed at fostering lifelong connections among alumnae. The program provides opportunities for current female student athletes to connect with alumnae and the broader Penn State community to engage, elevate and celebrate the decades of success of the University's female athletics programs.
Through "Teammates for Life," Morett-Curtiss continues to impact the lives of Penn State women, aiming to foster a sense of community and support that extends well beyond graduation.
“To be recognized by Penn State, the very university that believed in equality for women’s sports and me personally, fills me with immense pride and gratitude,” Morett-Curtiss said. “Penn State offered me a world-class education in the College of Health and Human Development, an exciting athletic experience and an opportunity to mentor and empower young athletes through coaching and now, ‘Teammates for Life.’ I will be forever grateful to the professors, administrators, coaches, players and friends who encouraged and inspired me along the way.”
Established by the Board of Trustees in 1951, the Distinguished Alumni Award is the highest honor that Penn State bestows upon an outstanding alumna or alumnus. The award salutes the achievements of outstanding alumni whose personal lives, professional achievements, and community service exemplify the objectives of their alma mater.