HADDONFIELD, N.J. - The Atlantic East Conference is pleased to continue the Alumni Spotlight Series, where it celebrates the remarkable achievements and inspiring journeys of former student-athletes who once proudly represented our member institutions. These individuals have continued in the athletics field, showcasing exceptional dedication, and bringing honor to both their alma maters and the league.
Through hard work, resilience, and the values they cultivated during their time as student-athletes, our featured alumni continue to exemplify the core principles of the Atlantic East. Join us as we highlight their stories, share their accomplishments, and explore how their experiences as student-athletes helped shape their careers and communities.
Name: Brittany Whalen
Current Organization: Immaculata University
Current Role: Head Women’s Basketball Coach/Athletic Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Graduation Year: 2015 (Immaculata)
Sport: Women’s Basketball
Describe your current job and your connection to sports?
I am the Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Immaculata University, and I also assist with marketing and communications efforts within the athletics department. Both roles keep me closely connected to sports and allow me to work with a wide range of student-athletes and coaches. Being involved in multiple areas of the department gives me the opportunity to contribute not only to our basketball program but also to the overall growth and visibility of Immaculata athletics.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is mentoring young women who are in a position that I was once in and watching them grow- not only as basketball players, but as people. It’s incredibly meaningful to see them develop into confident, kind, and capable individuals who are preparing for their careers and life beyond college. I also love getting to know my players beyond the sport, along with their families. I feel very fortunate to work with such a great group of people and to be part of their journey.
Best memory at Immaculata as both a player and a coach?
There have been many amazing memories on the court as both a player and a coach, but what stands out most are the relationships I’ve built through the program and the university. The connections I’ve made with teammates, players, coaches, and staff have meant more to me than any single moment in a game. Those relationships have created countless memories over the years and continue to be one of the most special parts of being part of the Immaculata community.
How has mentorship influenced your transition into professional practice?
Mentorship played an important role in my transition into professional practice. Moving from an academic environment into a professional setting came with many new expectations and responsibilities. After graduating from Immaculata, I began my professional career in the healthcare field, working with individuals and families experiencing devastating injuries and illnesses. I was fortunate to have several strong mentors who helped make that transition smoother, as I was able to turn to them for guidance and advice. Over time, as my career evolved and I transitioned into a head coaching role in collegiate athletics, I continued to build meaningful relationships with others in the field who also became mentors to me. Their support and perspective helped me navigate new responsibilities, grow in my leadership role, and continue developing professionally. Overall, mentorship helped me build confidence in my abilities and feel more prepared to take on the responsibilities that come with professional practice.
Can you describe a situation during your transition from college to a professional career where you felt challenged, and how did you handle it?
The transition from being a dual-sport student-athlete (basketball and softball) to starting a professional career was one of the biggest challenges for me, both physically and mentally. Like many athletes, I was used to having a structured routine, daily training, and the sense of purpose that comes with being part of a team. When that suddenly changes after graduation, it can feel like a big adjustment. Personally, I struggled with anxiety and panic during that time as I worked to find a new routine and direction. What helped me most was leaning on the support of my former teammates who are still some of my closest friends today, as well as my super supportive family. Their encouragement helped me work through that period and eventually find my path. Looking back, I think this is something many former student-athletes experience, and it’s a topic that deserves more attention and support for young adults going through that transition.
What do you look back on most from your time at Immaculata?
The people. It’s true when they say the people make the place. Immaculata has a unique way of bringing people together, and it created a tight-knit community that truly feels like family. That sense of connection is the number one thing I look back on, and it makes me happy to know that it’s still such an important part of the experience today.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
I see myself continuing to work in athletics in the future. While I’m not exactly sure where the path will lead, I know that this career brings me a lot of passion and fulfillment. I hope to continue building meaningful relationships, creating great memories with the people I work with, and balancing that career with raising a family.
ABOUT ATLANTIC EAST
The Atlantic East Conference is a member of NCAA Division III comprising eight institutions in a four-state area - Gwynedd Mercy, Immaculata, Marywood and Neumann Universities in Pennsylvania; Centenary and Saint Elizabeth Universities in New Jersey, Marymount University in Virginia, and Pratt Institute in New York.
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