
On May 31, 2025, Laurel (Lo) Stender was posthumously inducted into the California Community College Athletic Trainer Association (CCCATA) Hall of Fame. She was recognized for her outstanding work in the field of athletic training and dedication to the CCCATA community. Lo was an elite level trainer with Cerro Coso and her commitment to her student athletes was unmatched. Tragically, Lo passed in June 2024 during a canyoneering accident along the Kern River.
Prior to her time at Cerro Coso she was well known for her adventurous lifestyle which was molded through her early experiences as a collegiate runner and US women's rugby player. Her participation in these areas sparked an interest in sport medicine and she would continue her professional path in the field. This allowed Lo to stay close to the athletic community serving in the role of a certified athletic trainer. You could easily find Lo in the mix with her sport teams, engaging in conversation with coaches, fans, and athletes, making everyone feel welcomed and included during Cerro Coso events. Lo's commitment to caring for her athletes and her willingness to go the extra mile to ensure their health and safety provided a comfort and care to the student athletes and she was committed to keeping them safe and healthy in their pursuit of their athletic goals. Cerro Coso athletics valued her genuine interest of making sure that her athletes were taken care of, not only physically but with their overall wellness.
Those that knew Lo were familiar with infectious spirit and contagious smile. She approached life many aspire to, if there was something fun or new or adventurous, Lo was ready to take part. She was the cornerstone of the Coyote athletic department. Lo was depended upon and respected by students, coaches and administrators. Cerro Coso athletics and the CCCATA is better for having her as a small part of the tradition, and her memory will always continue to live on through Coyote athletics.