Bio

Her Plaque Reads: Vanessa Martell '00, who began taking classes at FLCC as a part-time student when she was 14, also continued to be homeschooled by her mother, Mary Lou. At 16 she matriculated, and a year later earned an A.S. degree in physical education. Vanessa recalls her first race against a Division III school at the UR Invitational. Up until that time she had only competed against other community college teams. She describes it as a turning point as a runner because she went out faster than she ever had, ran a personal best, and realized she could run faster that she thought was possible for herself. Vanessa credits Coaches Prockton and Coons with providing the support and motivation that have made her a runner. The talent she exhibited at FLCC was recognized with two honors: Academic All-American and Mid-State Conference Champion.

Vanessa transferred to SUNY Brockport in the fall 2000 semester and completed one year of coursework. For the following two years she attended Calvary Chapel of the Finger Lakes School of Ministry where she earned a certificate in ministry. Returning to SUNY Brockport, Vanessa graduated in 2004 with a B.S. degree in PE liberal arts with a minor in recreation and leisure, and in 2007 received a M.S. degree in recreation and leisure studies with a management track. While earning these two degrees, she competed as a member of the cross-country and indoor and outdoor track teams; and became an assistant cross-country and distance track and field coach once her eligibility had ended.

Vanessa, who is also employed by Eastside YMCA in Penfield, formed an elite development track and field club for women serving as the president manager. The Brockport Distance Project was incorporated in 2008, and that year took fifth place at United States of America Track and Field (USATF) Outdoor Track and Field Club Nationals. Vanessa who runs for the club and is currently training to qualify for the 2012 Olympic trials has earned the Rochester Runner of the Year for the past two years. 

The first inductees into the Finger Lakes Community College Athletic Hall of Fame occurred in 1991. Induction recognizes alumni athletes who serve as a role models for current student athletes. The College and Department of Athletics are thrilled to honor Vanessa D. Martell '00 with induction into the FLCC Athletic Hall of Fame.