McDonough School of Business
News Story

Alumni Spotlight – Emily Infeld

As if being having been a high-achieving Georgetown McDonough student and athlete wasn’t enough, 26-year-old alumnus Emily Infeld has had an incredible year on the track — taking 11th place in the Women’s 10,000m at the 2016 Olympics in Rio. Infeld’s strong performances have garnered her a large social media following, and her journey from what could have been a career-ending injury to winning a bronze medal at the IAAF World Championships in Beijing in 2015 has made Infeld an inspiring figure.

Infeld began competitively running as a teenager in University Heights, Ohio. A stellar high school career ended with her acceptance into Georgetown and a spot on the women’s track and field team. After finding specific events that catered to her strengths — such as the 1,500 meters in college and 10,000 meters today — Infeld began breaking personal records, placing in NCAA division championships, became an All-American cross country runner and eventually felt compelled to pursue her dream of being an olympian. 

Infeld suffered a stress fracture at the base of her spine just months before the 2015 World Championships. The injury could have meant an end to her running career if improperly rested and rehabilitated. Even after taking two months off to recover, she was able to place third at the meet.

Infeld has had a marvelous career thus far and continues to make Georgetown proud. She recently came back to the Hilltop to be celebrated at the Team USA Awards, hosted by Georgetown University. Returning to her Alma Mater, Infeld was greeted with a crowd of Georgetown students and President John DeGioia. Many current Georgetown McDonough Track and Field athletes see her career as a template for their own, acknowledging her commitment to success and excellence in her sport.