AIA award choice surprises Sr. Lynn

Tap-tap-tap.

Who could that be?

Xavier Prep Vice Principal for Activities and Athletic Director Sr. Lynn Winsor was enjoying another Arizona Interscholastic Champions Luncheon on Monday (May 21) when a member of the AIA’s video staff tapped her on the shoulder.

“Please come with me,’’ they said.

Sr. Lynn obliged and was led to the steps near the stage where the annual awards were being handed out at the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale.

Almost before she knew it, she was called onto the stage by AIA Executive Director David Hinds, who presented her with the inaugural AIA Lifetime Achievement Award for her 41 years of service to Xavier as an administrator and to the Arizona and national high school communities.

It takes a lot to surprise Sr. Lynn. And this time, she was as the crowd stood and applauded.

Sr. Lynn Winsor holds the AIA's inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award (AIA photo).

“The word shocked does not even describe by reaction to getting this,’’ she said Tuesday (May 22). “I am honored and humbled.’’

Xavier President Sr. Joan Fitzgerald said, “All of us at Xavier are so proud of Sr. Lynn’s dedication to athletics and activities. In her 44 years at Xavier (Sr. Lynn joined the faculty in 1974 and became an administrator three years later), she has brought the Christian perspective in sports to Xavier students, coaches, parents, faculty, staff, administration and alumnae.

“The over 130 state titles won by Xavier under her leadership is a testament to her leadership, her commitment to a quality athletic program, her emphasis on sportsmanship and her goal of providing positive experiences for all involved in high school athletics and activities.’’

Sr. Lynn won’t be ready to surrender her spot at XCP any time soon.

“I became Xavier’s Athletic Director when Moby was a minnow,’’ she said. “I plan on continuing as AD as long as I can fulfill the duties with vigor, care and class.’’