Senior golfer Elaine Grant closed her historic career in memorable fashion, earning UIS Jimmy John's Athlete of the Month honors for May following standout performances at both regionals and nationals.

Grant becomes the first student-athlete in the three-year history of the Jimmy John's Athlete of the Month program to earn the honor three times for achievements within a single sport. She previously received the award in April of her sophomore season and October of her junior year.

At the NCAA Division II East Regional, Grant delivered one of the strongest performances of her career to earn a return trip to nationals. She opened the tournament with rounds of 76 and 75 before carding a final-round 74 in rainy conditions to finish tied for second overall at 225 (+9), securing an individual qualifying spot for nationals.

Her regional finish sent her to the NCAA Division II Women's Golf Championship for the second time in her career.

Competing against the nation's top golfers at PGA National, Grant tied for 19th overall to record the best national finish by a UIS golfer. She posted rounds of 78, 71, and 77 for a three-round total of 226, highlighted by a second-round 71 that included an eagle and came despite weather delays.

Grant finished the championship among the national leaders in several categories, recording eight birdies and becoming one of only five golfers in the field to card an eagle during the tournament.

Her postseason success adds to one of the most accomplished careers in UIS women's golf history. Grant concluded her career as a two-time NCAA Championship participant while consistently elevating the standard for Prairie Stars golf.

The Jimmy John's Athlete of the Month award is presented in partnership with Jimmy John's in Springfield, reflecting a shared commitment between Jimmy John's and UIS Athletics to celebrate excellence across all Prairie Stars programs.

Grant is also one of 12 finalists for UIS Female Athlete of the Year, an award that will be decided in the near future.

May 2026 Nominees
Elaine Grant, Women's Golf
Madelyn Miller-Ross, Women's Outdoor Track & Field
Matt Padilla, Men's Outdoor Track & Field
Rosie Bartletti, Softball
Calista Stahlhut, Softball
Graham Kasey, Baseball
Kaden Griffitts, Baseball