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Colgate Celebrates Hall of Honor Class of 2024

Since its inception in 1979, more than 270 men and women have been recognized for their achievements as Colgate student-athletes in the Hall of Honor.

Each inductee was introduced by a former coach or colleague who played a special role in their accomplishments at Colgate. Natalie Rawson ’05, one of the inductees, joined her sister Melissa Rawson, in the Colgate Athletics Hall of Honor. Natalie Rawson was a two-sport athlete at Colgate, playing both softball and volleyball. 

A four-time All-Patriot League selection and two-time All-Region honoree, Natalie Rawson is Colgate Softball's all-time leader in career RBI (130) and second on the program's career home run leaderboard (32). She was also named to the volleyball All-Patriot League second team in 2004. 

“Once I started coaching in college and traveling across the country, I realized there’s no place like Colgate,” said Rawson. “The traditions, the professors, the administration, and the culture of the place are unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. Being inducted into the Hall of Honor, I will add this to the list of my favorite memories. To be able to come back here with my husband, my three little girls, and the rest of my family is really special to me.”

Phinel Petit-Frere '01, another inductee, shared his appreciation for all of his supporters who were key contributors to his success during his time at Colgate. 

Petit-Frere made his mark on the Colgate track & field team, joining as a walk-on and quickly rising to team captain. He dominated with six Patriot League championships, while earning 10 All-Patriot League selections as a Raider. 

“I’d love to thank Colgate University, Colgate athletics, and more specifically I would like to thank the University’s office of undergraduate studies,” said Petit-Frere, an inductee who competed in cross country and track and field. “They are the reason why I’m at Colgate today. They invested in me and leaders made a huge difference in my life. I want to thank my coaches, teammates on the field, teammates off the field, and my incredible family.”

Hall of Honor inductions take place every two years to recognize individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Colgate Athletics. The Hall of Honor's purpose is to perpetuate the memory of those who have achieved distinction, honor, and excellence as Raiders.

This year's lineup of inductees features seven men and four women who have together accumulated 31 conference championships across 13 varsity sports during their Colgate careers. The group brings the Hall of Honor membership to 274 honorees. 

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