Grand Rapids, Michigan - Emma-Claire Sleighter, the daughter of Kelly and Jeff Sleighter, has signed her national letter of intent to continue her academic and athletic career at Aquinas College. Sleighter, who currently attends East Kentwood High School, became the fifth signee of the 2025-26 recruiting class for the Aquinas College women's cross country and track & field programs.

Sleighter simply stated, "I chose Aquinas because I really enjoyed the atmosphere, everyone was very welcoming in and outside of athletics."

Sleighter, who enjoys swimming, baking, and most outdoor activities, has posted a personal best of 21:01 on the cross course and 2:26 (800 meters) and 5:40 (1600 meters) on the track. EC, who captained the Falcons cross country team this fall, is also an All-Academic honoree and a MITES award recipient. She also has a really cute cat named Max.

Val Thomasma, head girls cross country coach at East Kentwood and Aquinas XC/TF alum added, "Emma-Claire has been a year-round distance runner since middle school, so she definitely understands the discipline and commitment required to excel in cross country and track.  Emma-Claire is so valuable to our team dynamic; she makes working out and racing fun, rewarding, and a memorable experience for her teammates and coaches."

Sleighter has six siblings named Andrea, Connor, Cory, Olivia, Madelyn, and Tanner and she plans on majoring in mathematics for secondary education at Aquinas College.

Aquinas head coach Mike Wojciakowski commented, "I am thrilled that Emma-Claire is a Saint.  She is a leader with a team first mentality.  EC is a welcomed addition and will make a big impact in our program and throughout our campus community."