NORTHFIELD, Vt. - Balancing athletics, academics, and leadership, Rachel Kempf '25 has made the most of her time at Norwich University.  Hailing from Warwick, R.I., and a four-year starter and team captain for the softball team, Kempf has also competed for the women's rugby team while pursuing a demanding nursing degree.

For Kempf, the Division III experience was the perfect fit, allowing her to continue playing the sports she loves while prioritizing her education.

"I chose to compete at the Division III level because it allowed me to balance my passion for sports with my academic and future career goals," Kempf said.  "Division III emphasizes the student-athlete experience, where academics come first, which was crucial given my desire to pursue a demanding nursing degree.  While other divisions might have more athletic-focused programs, Division III allowed me to continue playing softball and even explore rugby without compromising my education or future career."

Since arriving at Norwich University, Kempf has embodied the institution's values of discipline, leadership, and perseverance--all of which were major factors in her decision to attend.

"I chose Norwich University because it offered the perfect combination of factors that aligned with my personal and professional aspirations.  I was draw to attending a Senior Military College because I wanted the structure, discipline, and leadership development to help me grow academically and as an individual.  Norwich provided precisely that, with its reputation for fostering strong leaders in a disciplined environment."

On the softball field, Kempf has been a steady presence behind the plate, starting in 76 of 83 games as the team's primary catcher.  As of Apr. 9, 2025, she has recorded 20 runs, 49 hits, 21 RBIs, and 256 putouts, all while maintaining a .322 on-base percentage.  Her dedication and leadership helped Norwich achieve a milestone Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) victory over Emmanuel College this season--this program's first since 2017.

Her excellence extends into the classroom, where she has earned GNAC All-Academic Team honors and College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District recognition.  Balancing athletics and academics is no-easy feat, but for Kempf, it has been a defining part of her Norwich experience.

"Being able to compete in both softball and rugby while pursuing my nursing degree has truly been a dream come true.  The opportunity to stay active in sports while focusing on my academic and career goals has given me a sense of balance and fulfillment.  The environment at Norwich has been key to this, as it has provided me with the structure and support I need to manage my time and responsibilities effectively.  Whether on the field or in the classroom, Norwich has helped me stay focused and continue to push towards achieving all of my aspirations."

As she nears the end of her Norwich career, Kempf continues to lead by example, proving that hard work, time management, and passion can lead to success in all areas of life.