Lehigh University Athletics
Ayres dives into Women's Center Internship
9/23/2003 12:00:00 AM | Men's Swimming and Diving, Swimming and Diving, Women's Swimming and Diving
Gossip, clothes and boys are what most people think of when they hear the words "girl talk." Senior Lauren Ayres changed that for many female freshmen on the Lehigh campus. The "Girl Talk " program, which was planned and implemented by Ayres, is an informal discussion group that deals with changes such as eating disorders and depression that many females face as freshmen. The program is open to female freshmen on the Lehigh campus. Ayres contacted guest speakers who had experienced these challenges and in a relaxed environment girls were able to open up by sharing personal experiences, while asking questions at the same time. "Girl Talk" is just one of the many projects Ayres took on as an intern. The senior recently split her time between swim team practice, studying, and the opening of the University's newest facility. Lehigh recently celebrated 30 years of women at Lehigh with the grand opening of the Women's Center. The Women's Center's central mission is "to make Lehigh University a safe, supportive and respectful environment for women." Ayres chose to intern in the Center because she felt she could assist the Women's Center in fulfilling its mission as well as to put into practice what she had learned about women and gender issues in Women's Studies 101 class. Along with "Girl Talk," Ayres put together a "Pamper Yourself Day", event forms, developed a counseling drop-in procedure, created a resource book, performed research, and more. She was also busy preparing for the Grand Opening of the Women's Center. Amid all of these projects Ayres was able to reflect on the impact the internship had on her. "There was not one point during the semester where I actually looked at this internship as work; it was more of a way for me to hopefully make a difference in the lives of others," Ayres said. "During my internship I was able to learn something new everyday, whether it was about women, or Lehigh, or even myself." Throughout her internship Ayres has worked along side Kristen Handler, the Director of the Women's Center. "The atmosphere in the Center itself is so welcoming and friendly that it was a pleasure to work there. I was always encouraged to express my true feelings about issues. My opinions, as well as my thoughts and ideas were taken very seriously making me feel that I was an intricate part of the center," said Ayres. Handler was very impressed with Ayres. "Lauren is truly a born leader," noted Handler. This is apparent to anyone who is involved with the swim team or has ever seen Lauren swim. Last season, she was named to the Patriot League All Decade Team. Ayres, also the women's team captain, holds school records in the 500 free, 1000 free, 1650 free and the 800 free relay. She has also been a member of the All-Patriot League since her freshman year. Working at the Center has allowed others to see what she is capable of on dry land. "Her energy, hard work and creativity have increased the visibility of the Women's Center and promoted a positive image of it to students who otherwise may not been aware of it," said Handler. "Lauren is a huge asset to the Center as it grows and becomes a more prominent part of campus life," she added. Before graduation, Ayres plans to put on a special spring event focused on Lehigh women athletes as part of this year's campus-wide celebration of 30 years of women at Lehigh. Â
- story by Megan Fitzgerald
