DENVER – The MSU Denver Athletics Department is proud to announce the 2025 class of inductees into the Roadrunners Hall of Fame. Rob and Molly Cohen, Jake Palmer, Tara Mickelson, Naomi Clarke, and Brandi Torr are now forever enshrined into Roadrunners history. This distinguished group includes outstanding student-athletes and generous supporters whose contributions have left a lasting legacy on Roadrunners athletics.
Rob & Molly Cohen
Rob and Molly Cohen have been transformational figures for MSU Denver Athletics for nearly three decades. Their generous donations, totaling well over $1 million, have directly supported the growth and success of MSU Denver's athletic programs and student-athletes. Rob Cohen's leadership has extended beyond philanthropy, including service on the MSU Denver Foundation Board and the Board of Trustees — where he served as chair for five years. His instrumental role in the university's name change, the creation of master's programs, and establishing the non-resident tuition rate reflects his deep commitment to the institution. In recognition of their ongoing contributions, the Assembly Athletic Complex was named the Cohen Center for Athletics in 2017. The Cohen Scholars Program, launched in 2018, stands as a testament to their innovative support for student-athletes.
Jake Palmer (Baseball, 2005-2008)
Palmer ranks among the all-time greats in MSU Denver baseball history. A 2008 ABCA Second-Team All-American and Daktronics and NCBWA honorable mention All-American, Palmer's collegiate achievements are remarkable. He finished his career third in program history with 236 hits, second with 201 RBIs, and holds the single-season program record of 89 RBIs set in 2008. That year, his team achieved a school-record 38 wins and reached No. 11 in the NCBWA national poll, the highest ranking in program history. His consistent excellence earned him three All-RMAC first-team selections and multiple All-Region honors, solidifying his place as one of the Roadrunners' most prolific hitters.
Tara Mickelson (Softball, 2009-2010)
A key contributor to the 2010 team that reached the NCAA Division II College World Series, Mickelson's bat made a lasting impact. She was a first-team All-American in 2009 and second-team in 2010, twice earning first-team all-region honors. Mickelson holds MSU Denver's career record for slugging percentage (.843) and ranks among the top in home runs (47), RBIs (152), and batting average (.384). She set the single-season home run record with 25 in 2010 and ranks top-three for RBIs in a single season. Over two seasons, Mickelson's teams compiled a stellar 93-17 record, dominating Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference play and securing league championships.
Naomi Clarke (Women's Soccer, 2003)
Clarke was named to the RMAC All-Century Team in 2009 and earned Second-Team All-American honors in 2003. That year, she was RMAC Player of the Year and led the Roadrunners to a 21-1-1 record, the RMAC regular-season championship, and a berth in the NCAA Division II national quarterfinals. Clarke's 16 assists in 2003 remain one of the top single-season marks in program history. Her leadership and skill on the field made her a dominant force in MSU Denver soccer during her tenure.
Brandi Torr (Volleyball, 2013-2016)
Torr concluded her career as one of the finest setters in program history, earning first-team All-American honors from AVCA in 2016 and multiple RMAC Player of the Year awards. Torr ranks second all-time in assists (4,832) and fifth in assists per set (10.9). Her serving prowess was highlighted by 101 career service aces, placing her fifth in program history during the rally-scoring era. Torr helped lead MSU Denver to four consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, including an undefeated 18-0 RMAC regular season and conference tournament championship in 2016.
The MSU Denver Athletics Hall of Fame celebrates the excellence and dedication of these individuals whose legacies continue to inspire the Roadrunner community.
For more information about the 2025 induction ceremony and other Hall of Fame events, please visit https://roadrunnersathletics.com/honors/hall-of-fame
