Featured Hawks: Sara Turanjanin
Every Monday through Thursday for the month of July, Chowan Athletics will spotlight select student-athletes and coaches in a series called Featured Hawks. This series highlights Hawks who exemplify excellence in the classroom, in competition, and within the Chowan community. Student-athletes were selected based on their academic achievement, athletic performance, leadership, character, and overall standing with the university. Coaches have the opportunity to share their coaching journey, discuss their programs, and provide insight about their vision for the future.
Fans will learn more about the individual experiences and stories of our student-athletes and coaches at Chowan. Beginning in August, Fridays will transition to Feature Fridays, continuing the spotlight series by highlighting one individual throughout the school year each week.
July 15th, 2026
Sara Turanjanin is a sophomore Business Administration major from Serbia and a member of the Chowan women's swimming team. During her freshman season, Turanjanin made an immediate impact for the Hawks, competing in the 50-, 100-, and 200-yard backstroke events. She earned a gold medal in the 100-yard backstroke at the King Mid-Season Invitational and was a consistent member of the Hawks' 200-yard freestyle relay team throughout the season. She capped off her freshman campaign by recording a personal-best time in the 200-yard backstroke at the Conference Carolinas Championship.
Turanjanin has also excelled in the classroom, earning Dean's List honors while being named to the Conference Carolinas Winter and Spring Presidential Honor Roll. In recognition of her outstanding first season, she was honored as a member of Chowan's Rookie Class at the 2026 Athletics Awards, celebrating the impact she made during her freshman year with the Hawks.
Why did you choose Chowan University?
I chose Chowan University because it gave me the opportunity to continue my swimming career while earning a college degree in the United States. As an international student, I was looking for a place where I could grow both academically and athletically, and Chowan gave me that opportunity.
What do you enjoy most about competing in your sport at Chowan?
What I enjoy most about competing in swimming at Chowan is definitely the atmosphere of meets. I love race days! I love how everyone cheers for each other and the support from my teammates makes every competition more enjoyable, motivating me to always do my best.
If you could describe the Chowan community in three words, what would they be and why?
If I had to describe the Chowan community in three words, I would say supportive, welcoming, and family oriented. Because moving from Serbia to the United States was a big change for me, but from the moment I arrived, everyone made me feel welcomed. Whether it's our professors, coaches, teammates, or friends, there is always someone willing to help and encourage you. Being so far away from home isn't always easy, but at Chowan, I truly feel like I have a second family. I'm so proud to be a Hawk because of the strong sense of community, support, and belonging I found here.The memories I've made so far mean a lot to me, and I can't wait to make even more in the years ahead.
