University of Nebraska - Kearney Athletics

Recognition: Athlete

Danis Willet was a versatile sprinter for the Lady Lopers in the 1970s. in her specialty, the 400 meters, she was the first Nebraska woman to break 55 seconds , when she set the university record of 54.6 in 1977. The Benkelman native qualified for four National AIAW meets in the 400 meters and on the 4x100, 4x400 and 4x800 relay teams. All three relay teams set UNK records. In 1978 she represented the Midwest team in the first U.S. Olympic Sports Festival. She was rated among the top 25 colligate 400 meter runners in the nation. As a Masters competitor, Willet has won national titles in the 100, 200 and 400 meters. She received the national Outstanding Female Track Athlete Award for her age group in 1991.