CSM to Honor Supernova Gina Mancuso-Prososki at Ignite the Flame Luncheon
OMAHA, Neb. – College of Saint Mary is hosting its second annual Ignite the Flame fundraising event supporting women’s athletics on April 30. Omaha native Gina Mancuso-Prososki will be honored, and the event will showcase the achievements of Flames athletes.
The second Ignite the Flame Community Impact Award will be given during the program, honoring an individual or organization in our community dedicated to supporting girls and women participating in athletics and health and wellness. CSM will present Mancuso-Prososki, a member of the Omaha Supernovas, with the award for her dedication and drive as a high school, college and professional athlete and the inspiration she provides.
“She is living proof that young girls and women can not only succeed but thrive in athletics, health and wellness,” said Robbie Shay, CSM director of athletics. “When young girls see Gina take the court for the Supernovas, they see someone from their neighborhood, city, and state that is successful and gives them hope. She proves that determination, hard work and discipline can lead you to amazing places.”
A four-year letter winner at Nebraska, Mancuso-Prososki was a two-time All-American, a two-time first-team all-region selection, and a two-time unanimous first-team All-Big Ten pick. She was part of two Husker teams to qualify for the NCAA Elite Eight. As a prep player at Papillion-La Vista High School, Mancuso-Prososki led the team to a state title in 2008. She was named the 2009 Gatorade National Player of the Year, the first-ever athlete from Nebraska to earn the accolade. Mancuso-Prososki has played professionally in Puerto Rico, Azerbaijan, Poland, Germany, and Indonesia. She is currently a member of the Omaha Supernovas. Mancuso-Prososki was inducted into the Omaha Sports Hall of Fame in 2023.
Mancuso-Prososki said she is humbled to receive the award.
“I don't feel deserving, but at the same time, I'm encouraged and confident that what I'm doing, big or small, daily or long-term, private or public, has been worth it because if I can inspire just one, then I celebrate that and will watch that one live out their dream as well,” She said. “Thank you, College of Saint Mary, for this recognition, which I will hold with honor and pride. I feel very blessed.”
The program will also include testimonials from current Flames athletes, as well as CSM alums and former athletes Michele D’Ercole Pohlman and Michaela D’Ercole Jacobson. Both are serving as honorary co-chairs. Ana Bellinghausen of Hurrdat Sports will emcee the event.
The luncheon will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 30 at the Lied Fitness Center Fieldhouse on College of Saint Mary’s campus, 7000 Mercy Road. Tickets for the event can be purchased online at CSM.edu/Ignite.
