Ignite the Flame - College of Saint Mary

College of Saint Mary Flames Athletics Fundraising Luncheon

CElebrating women’s athletics

Celebrate excellence, leadership, and the power of women in sport at Ignite the Flame at College of Saint Mary.

2026 Event Highlights

The 2026 Ignite the Flame was held on April 16 at the Lied Fitness Center Fieldhouse on College of Saint Mary’s campus. It was our biggest and best Ignite the Flame yet. Thank you to all of our sponsors, attendees, and student athletes for helping us raise more than $110,000 at this year’s event.

Fueling the Future of CSM Athletics

Now in its fourth year, this signature fundraiser brings our community together to support CSM Athletics, honor the achievements of our Flames student-athletes, and recognize a trailblazer who has paved the way for women in sports.

Sponsorship opportunities

2026 Keynote Speaker and Community Impact Award Recipient

John Cook

We are honored to welcome John Cook, Co-Owner and General Manager of the Omaha Supernovas and former head volleyball coach at the University of Nebraska, as our keynote speaker and Ignite the Flame Community Impact Award honoree.

Cook’s impact on the sport of volleyball is immeasurable. He has helped elevate the game to new heights and inspired generations of female athletes across the country. His leadership has not only shaped championship teams, but also expanded what’s possible for women’s athletics.

Career Highlights

Four NCAA National Championships
Fourteen Conference Championships
Three National Coach of the Year awards
Record-breaking attendance, including the largest women’s sporting event in history
A lasting influence on the growth of women’s athletics nationwide

We could not have selected a stronger advocate for women’s sports. We are grateful for Cook’s partnership in celebrating our student-athletes, strengthening community pride, and championing the future of Flames Athletics.

Featured Student Athletes

Each year at the Ignite the Flame luncheon, we spotlight a student-athlete whose story reflects the heart of CSM Athletics. We celebrate her achievements and recognize the grit, resilience, and perseverance behind her success.

2026 • Track & field

Mikaiya Rodgers

Mikaiya is a standout long jumper and nursing student known for her energy, dedication, and ability to balance hard work with a genuine love for being a Flames studnet-athlete.

2025 • Swimming

Kylee Brown

Kylee’s story highlights perseverance, leadership, and the everyday work it takes to compete at a high level while pursuing academic success.

2024 • Golf

Ritzy Dominguez

Ritzy brings passion, focus, and determination to everything she does, showing up ready to compete, grow, and make the most of every opportunity.

2023 • Volleyball

Kamryn Willman

Kamryn’s journey is one of resilience and determination, overcoming a life-changing diagnosis to become a leader, record-setting athlete, and the backbone of her team.