(Danville) — One of the pioneers for women’s sports at Averett University died this weekend.
Barbara Kushubar was an Averett graduate who returned to her Alma Mater and spent 36 years as a professor and coach.
She began as women’s volleyball coach in 1989, leading the Cougars to four conference titles in five years. She was named the conference’s Coach of the Year three times. She also hired a grad assistant, Danny Miller, who replaced Kushubar and ended up being the winningest coach in Averett women’s basketball history.
“She helped me find my calling and was instrumental in helping me stay at Averett. Throughout my entire career, Kushubar was always supportive and there for me and my family, said Miller. “It is hard for me to have to think about Averett without Kushubar around because she’s always been there to help everyone grow and develop. She has always and will continue to be a role model for me.”
Kushubar also coached the Cougars women’s tennis program to four conference titles and was named conference Coach of the Year three straight seasons. She was also women’s basketball coach for two seasons.
Kushubar served as Averett’s assistant Athletic Director for two years and was an associate professor in the physical education department from 1986 until her death. She was twice was named the Averett Faculty Member of the Year.
“Barb Kushubar was instantly a true ally for me after joining Averett, immediately ensuring I felt welcomed, valued and loved through gestures as simple as a dinner invitation,” said Meg Stevens, vice president, director of athletics and campus operations. “Her mentorship surpassed the usual boundaries, impacting not just students but colleagues like myself in deep and lasting ways. Having her as a mentor and one of my best friends is a gift I have treasured deeply.”
In 2015, Averett honored Kushubar by naming one of its major awards as the Barbara Kushubar Female Student-Athlete of the Year Award.
Kushubar was inducted into the Averett Athletics Hall of Fame in 2014.