CHARLOTTE, N.C. - "Competing for Queens is more than just wearing the jersey," says Ruby Gilbreth '27. "To me, competing for Queens is the accumulation of every second of work I've ever put into lacrosse. It all led to stepping onto the field and competing for this team. Queens has given me the opportunity to live out my dream to keep competing every day, always pushing to be better than the day before."
Today marks the launch of Investing in Champions, Queens Athletics' annual giving campaign. Every gift this week goes directly to student-athletes like Gilbreth and her teammates, funding the training resources, elevated travel, and everyday support that form the Women's Lacrosse program.
The program does more than churn out top-notch academics and annual athletic awards. "The biggest way I see this sport shape my athletes as people, not just competitors, is helping them grow in maturity, decision making, emotional intelligence, and leadership, all while developing the ability to handle 'hard' better," says Head Coach Kelly McQuilkin. "I see confident young women ready to tackle the world upon graduation."
Gilbreth is a prime example. "I've always known that I'm a dedicated and hard-working person, but the longer I keep proving to myself that I can overcome any obstacle in front of me, the more thankful I am for Queens giving me the opportunity to do so," she says.
Years after they graduate, McQuilkin says it's the toughest days her former players remember most. "They remember the incredibly hard days and appreciate what it taught them: discipline, hard work, integrity, teamwork, the feeling of accomplishment," she says. "The time in the program empowered and prepared them to succeed in the career they're in now."
Gilbreth has a message for the people who make this experience possible. Donor support, she says, goes toward what actually matters to the team, not just gear for its own sake. "We are incredibly thoughtful about finding the most beneficial use of the investments donors make, and nothing goes to waste," she says. "Each donation is something that brings each player a step closer to accomplishing their goals. Your generosity does not go unnoticed, unappreciated, or overlooked. Supporting and donating means the world to us, and we are so thankful."
"Without resources, none of this is possible," McQuilkin says.
This week, you can invest in Gilbreth and every student-athlete on the Queens Women's Lacrosse roster. With a fundraising goal of $40,000, every gift is an investment in the culture and confidence that carries these women well beyond graduation.
Check out this year's challenges and progress toward the goal here.
Investing In Champions is October 2-9, 2026. Unlock Royals Club benefits with gifts of $100 or more. For questions or information on issuing your own challenge, please reach out to Danielle Evans-Clan, director of athletics advancement, at evanscland@queens.edu.
