CALDWELL, N.J. -- Caldwell University Athletics presented the completed renovated women's athletic locker room, in a dedication ceremony held today at the George R. Newman Center. Former head women's basketball coach Linda Cimino, whose generous donation made the work possible, was on hand along with her mother, Mary Ellen Cimino, in whose name the locker room is dedicated.
Cimino, who will be inducted into the Caldwell University Athletics Hall of Fame in tonight's induction ceremony, served as coach from 2006-2014, winning 128 games, most in school history. Her squads compiled a 90-53 mark (69-26 in league play) over her last five seasons, leading the Cougars to their first regional and national rankings in the NCAA Division II era. The Cougars had their first 20-win season as an NCAA program with a 21-6 mark in 2010-11, and won 18 or more games four other times under her tutelage. She is now the head coach at Dartmouth College of the Ivy League.
"We are so grateful to Linda and Mary Ellen for the generous donation that was instrumental in making this significant improvement for the benefit of our student-athletes," said Corino. "It is gratifying that she remains so connected to Caldwell University and our program as she continues her coaching career."
Attending today's ceremony were Caldwell University President Dr. Jeffrey Senese, Assistant Vice President and Director of Athletics Mark A. Corino, members of the 2026-27 basketball team, other athletics coaches and staff, University dignitaries and other friends of the program.
"Caldwell University will always be a special place for me," said Cimino. "It was my first chance at coaching, and Mr. Corino and everyone here believed in me, and I'll be forever grateful to them."
The locker room, which will be primarily used by Caldwell women's athletics teams, was constructed by Bright Remodeling & Construction. Founder and President Asad Bright, who has been instrumental in the process, was also on hand at the ceremony.
Caldwell women's basketball season opens on Monday against Saint Michael's at the Newman Center.
