A standout Heartland Community College student athlete has been recognized with a national award.
The National Alliance of Two-Year College Athletic Administrators (NATYCAA) announced Nora Brady from Heartland Community College (Heartland), along with Jason Schwartz from De Anza College (California), as the 2025 NATYCAA Scholar-Athlete of the Year recipients.
On the track this season, Brady, a Central Catholic High School grad, captured an NJCAA D II National Championship in 5K Cross Country.
“Winning a National Championship is truly an amazing accomplishment that I am immensely proud of,” said Brady. “While everyone can see the outcome, few truly understand the journey that got me here. I am so grateful for my family, my teammates, and coaches, who supported me every step of the way.”
Since enrolling at Heartland, Brady has excelled both as a runner and in the classroom. In her second year, the national champion earned a 4.0 GPA while pursuing a nursing degree. Next year, she will continue her academic and athletic career at Illinois State University, where she’ll remain close to her Heartland teammates and friends, and be able to compete at the highest level.
Brady has received several notable honors, including but not limited to:
Academic
- Two-time Academic All-Conference
- Two-time NJCAA All-Academic 1st Team
- Four-time Dean’s List recipient
- Phi Theta Kappa member
Athletics
- NJCAA DII Cross Country National Championships
- 2024 National Champion
- 2023 finished 2nd overall both as an individual and team
- Two-time NJCAA All-American
“This time of year, is always special for our Association, as we have the privilege of recognizing exceptional two-year college student-athletes with our award,” stated NATYCAA Scholar-Athlete Committee Chair Kanoe Bandy, director of athletics at Taft College. “Each year, the selection process grows more challenging because every nominee demonstrates excellence in their own unique way. This year, Nora and Jason truly stood out—not only for their outstanding performances in their respective sports but also for their meaningful contributions to the community. Their leadership and positive influence set a high standard for future honorees.”
This is the second consecutive Scholar-Athlete of the Year honor for a Heartland student. Sam Antonacci (Baseball) was given the honor in 2024.
The award will be presented at the NACDA Conference in June in Orlando, FL.
