Alumna's love of swimming takes her from BW to national champ

In 1953, her smiling face and wavy hair pictured softly in a BW yearbook is a sweet memory captured in time. Seventy-two years later, Arlene Polen's captivating smile is still the same — but now she is a U.S. Masters Swimming national champion.

Polen '55 (nee Connors) is a two-time champion, winning her title both in 2024 and 2025. The Lakewood, Ohio, resident competed at both U.S. Masters Swimming competitions in the 90-94 age group in the 50-yard freestyle race. Her granddaughter, Elise Pichola, accompanied her to the meets in Indianapolis and San Antonio, Texas.

As national champion, Polen received a medal and a patch. She also was awarded a medal for being the most senior female swimmer at the events.

Polen is an avid swimmer. She goes five times a week to an indoor pool at the Rocky River Recreation Center to practice her sport and maintain wellness.

But swimming isn't her only aquatic passion. The lively and affable 91-year-old also enjoys boating and visiting Catawba Island, located on the shores of Lake Erie in Ohio.

Lasting connections to BW

A proud BW graduate, Polen still attends alumni events, including the recent Alumni Weekend celebration.

Though the campus has changed since her collegiate days, the vibrant alumna still enjoys opportunities to socialize and reminisce about her alma mater.

As a student, Polen was a member of the Aqualene Club and did synchronized swimming. She studied physical education and minored in psychology. After graduating from Baldwin Wallace, she earned an MAEd in 1974.

Award-winning educator

Her 45-year career in education included roles as both teacher and principal in schools in Lyndhurst, Lakewood and North Royalton.

She is a three-time recipient of the Martha Holden Jennings Educator Award, an award recognizing exceptional individuals who have made a lasting difference in schools and communities.