Gallaudet University senior Shana Lehmann , who missed the 2008 season with an injury, is one of the top volleyball liberos in the nation and is this week's featured CAC "INTRODUCING ..." student-athlete.

Lehmann and three GU teammates opened the 2009 season in Taipei, Taiwan, as a member of the USA deaf volleyball team that participated in the 2009 Deaflympics.  Lehmann and the USA squad advanced to the gold medal match against the Ukraine, but lost 3-0 to earn silver medals.  Since her return to the Gallaudet lineup, the Bison have compiled a 16-5 record and are among the leaders in the CAC standings.

What is your background in the sport you play?  My dad is an avid volleyball player, so when I was a child I would play volleyball with him. It was not until middle school when I finally started playing for a volleyball team at the Maryland School for the Deaf.  I continued my volleyball career in high school and now at Gallaudet University. In high school my position was outside hitter but once I arrived at GU I was moved to libero. I am also a member of Team USA's deaf volleyball team that recently participated in the 2009 Deaflympics in Taipei.

What is your favorite spot on campus?  My favorite spot on campus is Clerc Hall (dorm). I know it might not be the best building on campus but it is the life of Gallaudet. It is where I can either unwind by myself in my room or socialize with my friends. 

Other than your team, what organization (s) do you participate in?  I am a member of the Phi Kappa Zeta,  it is a sorority that consists of strong and intelligent Deaf women who give back to the community. I became a sister during my sophomore year at Gallaudet.

What is your major in college, and what is the most important thing you learned in that discipline? My major is Elementary Education. I have learned that everything I say or do as a future teacher will make a lasting impact on a child's life. 

Other than your family members, who was the most influential person in your life?  I can't really think of anyone other than my family members. My parents are the most influential people in my life. They have been there for me in every way possible and shaped me into the person I am today. 

If you could give one piece of advice to elementary school children, what would that advice be?  I would say; "Be yourself! There is nobody that can be you...just you." Plus, I like the saying; "What you give is what you get in return."

What is your favorite form of entertainment?  I enjoy reading books, watching movies, traveling and creating scrap books. 

Outside of the Capital Athletic Conference, who or what is your favorite sports person or team? Michael Jordan. Growing up, I loved watching how he played basketball and admired his determination on the court. 

Name three (3) people, real or fictional, living or dead, that you'd like to have dinner with. First, my Deaf grandmother Sarah May Cerniglia, who died before I was born. Growing up, I never really had a grandma but I have heard about how wonderful she was as a person. My mom always told me that if I knew her, I would have loved her. So, it would be nice to have a dinner with her to get to know her. Second, I think it would be cool to meet the first president of the United States of America - George Washington. Finally, I would like to have dinner with Santa Claus and his Elves. I have always loved the magic of Christmas. :)