West Central Michigan News

Central Michigan University has announced that student-athletes Abbey Tolmie and Nick Dardas have been awarded the Mid-American Conference Medal of Excellence for the 2023-24 season. This accolade is given annually to one male and one female graduating student-athlete from each of the 12 MAC institutions, recognizing academic achievement, athletic excellence, leadership, and community service.

"Both Abbey Tolmie and Nick Dardas are exemplary student-athletes and epitomize what it means to be a student-athlete at Central Michigan University," said Amy Folan, Zyzelewski Family Associate Vice President/Director of Athletics. "We are very proud of both for their accomplishments on the field as well as in the classroom."

Tolmie, from Clarkston, recently completed her career with the Chippewa softball team. She graduated with a bachelor of science degree in exercise science, maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA. Tolmie will continue her education in CMU's physician assistant program. On the field, she earned the MAC Nan Harvey Award in 2024 for demonstrating commitment and leadership.

Tolmie's record includes ranking fourth in CMU softball history with 232 hits and seventh with a .341 batting average. Her achievements also include being named an Easton/National Fastpitch Coaches Association All-America Scholar twice and receiving several other accolades during her tenure.

Dardas, hailing from Bay City, graduated with three bachelor's degrees in general management, personal finance, and finance while maintaining a 3.76 GPA. He has participated in 176 games for the Chippewa baseball team and has contributed significantly to their success during his time at CMU.

He is recognized as a two-time Academic All-MAC honoree and has played an essential role in leading his team to multiple championships.

The awards will be presented at the annual MAC Honors Dinner on May 30 at the Marriott Key Tower Hotel in Cleveland.