Soccer Coach Kafui Kouakou Named Queens Courier “Rising Star”
FLUSHING, N.Y.— York College head women's soccer coach and assistant men's soccer coach
Kafui Kouakou was honored recently by
The Queens Courier during their
fourth annual “Rising Stars” awards and networking event on January 26.
Presented by Metropolitan Hospitality, the “40 under 40” event drew close to 400 people and honored young professionals who exemplify outstanding leadership skills — not only in their chosen fields, but also in their community. The event took place at the Caesar's Club inside Citi Field. Kouakou was also featured on a piece by NY 1 news that night.
That video can be viewed here.
Kouakou, who also serves as the Chairperson of the University Student Senate on the CUNY Board of Trustees, was nominated for this award by CUNY Senior Vice Chancellor for University Relations, Jay Hershenson.
“It is a great honor,” said Kouakou. “I was not expecting it at all. I am grateful to be chosen among the 40 amazing people doing great work in the community.”
Kouakou is no stranger to being honored during his time at York as both a student and staff member. In addition to being named the Chairperson of the University Student Senate last year, Kouakou has led the men's soccer team to two CUNY Athletic Conference titles, with one coming as a player and another as a coach. In 2008, he won the prestigious Michael Steuerman CUNY Athletic Conference Scholar Athlete of the Year award. Earlier that school year, he was named CUNYAC Men's Soccer Most Valuable Player as the Cardinals' goalkeeper.
“These awards remind me that I am still on a good path,” added Kouakou. It keeps me motivated to keep doing more.”
Kouakou was not the only member of the York College family to be honored. In addition, Michel Hodge, Assistant Vice President for Enrollment, was also one of the honorees.
