Cynthis was a four-year all-Northwest Conference and all-America selection in th e 50, 100, and 200 meter backstroke events. She was Willamette's first-ever all-America on swimming. She was team captain in 1979-80 and earned Academic all-America honors in 1979 and 1980. Cynthia was named Willamette's female Athlete of the Year in 1980 and earned her highest national championships finish that same year, placing second in the 200 backstroke. Cynthia's contributions to athletics have continued after graduation as a teacher, coach and administrator. She is a noted national author on Title IX and women in sport.