BUFFALO, N.Y. – As the D'Youville University Athletics Department continues its call for nominations for the 2026–27 Athletics Hall of Fame Class—the fifth group to be enshrined among the university's highest athletic honors—the Saints are also taking time to celebrate the student-athletes, coaches, teams, and contributors whose accomplishments have helped shape the department's proud tradition.

Among those being recognized is 2023–24 Athletics Hall of Fame inductee Kathleen Navarro Twist, a standout multi-sport student-athlete whose excellence on the tennis court, leadership on the basketball court, and commitment to academics left a lasting impact on D'Youville Athletics.

A member of both the women's tennis and women's basketball teams during the early 1970s, Twist established herself as one of the premier athletes of her era. She was a four-year member of the women's tennis program, competing at first singles and first doubles throughout her collegiate career. Her dominance in singles play was unmatched, as she lost just one match during her four seasons representing the Saints.

Beyond her individual success, Twist's leadership was equally impressive. She served as captain of both the women's tennis and women's basketball teams, helping guide her teammates while setting a standard of excellence through her work ethic, competitive spirit, and dedication to D'Youville Athletics.

Her accomplishments extended beyond competition. From 1972-74, Twist was recognized in the prestigious Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges, an honor bestowed upon upperclassmen who demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and involvement in campus and community activities.

Twist graduated from D'Youville in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing before later earning a Master of Arts degree from Empire State University. Following graduation, she devoted nearly two decades to serving the Buffalo community as a registered nurse, working at several area hospitals and continuing the spirit of service that defined her collegiate career.

Whether competing at the top of the lineup on the tennis court, leading her teammates as a captain, or making a difference in her profession, Twist embodied the values of dedication, leadership, and service that continue to define D'Youville Athletics. Her induction into the Athletics Hall of Fame ensures her remarkable legacy will continue to inspire future generations of Saints student-athletes.
 
Nominate the Next Saints Legend
Do you know a former student-athlete, coach, team, administrator, or contributor who deserves to be recognized among the greatest in D'Youville Athletics history?

The D'Youville University Athletics Department is currently accepting nominations for the 2026-27 Athletics Hall of Fame Class. Nominations will be accepted through August 1.

Help preserve the rich tradition of D'Youville Athletics by recognizing those who have made a lasting impact on our programs and community.

To submit a nomination, click here.