With a career that affected the national sports landscape, Doris Soladay had a profound impact on intercollegiate women’s athletics. She was a pioneer, innovator, problem-solver, visionary, leader and facilitator during her lengthy career as a Syracuse University administrator. 

Starting in 1960, Soladay focused on the development and expansion of women’s intercollegiate athletics. She was, unquestionably, at the forefront of women's sports in an era where it moved from somewhat of an afterthought to today's vital commitment at the intercollegiate level. Soladay’s passion was developing women's athletics at the college and university level, all within the guidelines of Title IX. She was fair, honest, dedicated and a gem of a person who always saw the glass half-full.

Soladay, who retired in 1995, was honored numerous times for her work in the SU athletic department. Among her many accomplishments, she was a member of the NCAA Council, ECAC Women's Steering Committee, president of the Association of Women in Physical Education in New York, a board member of the Syracuse Chargers, the Syracuse Sports Corp., the YWCA and an inductee of the Orange Plus Hall of Fame, a S.U. Letterwinner of Distinction, a recipient of ECAC Josten's Distinguished Service Award and a Syracuse Post-Standard Woman of Achievement.

Soladay was honored by the ECAC with the Katherine Ley Award in 1995 as the women’s administrator who serves as a role model for her colleagues, as well as a strong proponent of women’s issues. She was also a member of the ECAC Women’s Steering Committee from 1983-1987.

Soladay passed away in 2001, but her spirit lives on in the form of the Soladay Award which is presented each year to the top male and female Syracuse student-athlete. The award is the highest honor bestowed upon a current Orange student-athlete and recognizes those who best exemplify her essence. Doris passed away in 2001.