On a typical school day, Alena Lipscomb moves naturally between the classroom and archery practice, balancing the demands of college academics and athletics. This spring, the Barnard rising junior added another accomplishment to her resume: becoming a national champion.
Lipscomb captured the Recurve College Women’s National Championship at the 2026 Hotel Planner USA Archery Collegiate Target Nationals, earning Columbia Archery’s first individual outdoor national title since 2017 and just the third in program history.
“When I found out that I was the third archer in program history that won the title, I was so grateful that I never gave up on the long training hours this past year,” said Lipscomb.
The championship was the culmination of months of preparation. According to Head Coach Derek Davis, Lipscomb’s pursuit of a national title began as soon as the previous season ended.
"This year started for [Lipscomb] as soon as last year ended. She made a commitment to herself and really put in the work," said Davis. "She went to Korea for a little while to train. She had a family vacation to Australia, took her bow with her and found a place to train while she was in Australia. She came in after summer break rolling and ready."
Lipscomb first picked up a bow at only ten years old after being inspired by the Disney movie, Brave. She competed on Thailand’s national archery team throughout high school before being drawn to Barnard for its supportive and intimate undergraduate environment.
“I grew up going to a very small school where the class size was never over twenty students,” said Lipscomb. “I thought Barnard would be the perfect transition.”
Columbia's women's archery is one of the most award-winning programs in the country, but for Lipscomb, the team’s tight-knit community has been just as meaningful as its competitive success.
“The Barnard-Columbia archery community is unique because it is small and welcoming. They’re built like a family that I know I can rely on,” said Lipscomb. “I’m so grateful to be a part of this community.”
Balancing the demands of both academics and athletics requires careful planning. Lipscomb often combines the two, catching up on political science readings while biking at the gym. She credits archery with helping her develop the discipline that carries over into every aspect of her academic life.
“Discipline is a skill I developed in archery that has been so helpful for my academics,” said Lipscomb. “No matter how tired I am, I get things done well and on time because I always plan ahead and stick to my goals.”
Lipscomb is only getting started. She is already looking ahead to her next challenges, both on and off the range.
“My goal for next year is to continue working hard and shooting even better in next season’s tournament, as well as applying to the School of International and Public Affairs 4+1 program in International Affairs," said Lipscomb. “I hope to qualify for the 2027 World University Games.”