RUSTON, La. - Louisiana Tech volleyball senior Marta Monne's accolades on the court are well noted, but this past week, the Milan, Italy, native earned prestigious distinction for her work in the classroom. Monne was named a 2018 Academic Excellence Honoree of the School of Design.

Monne, an interior design major, was recognized for her diligence and perseverance in the classroom at the College of Liberal Arts Academic Excellence Luncheon, last Thursday.

"It has always been very important for me to excel equally in both academics and athletics, Monne noted. "I have always set my standards high for myself, because there is a lot of competition out there, and I wanted to be prepared to face that, when I compete my degree. I've always wanted our team to be seen as a team of hard workers both on the court and in the classroom."

The all-conference and all-state honoree came to Louisiana Tech as a freshman in 2013, and worked back from a season-ending knee injury to become a staple in the Tech record books, and an example for current and future student-athletes at Louisiana Tech.

"I've always tried to set a good example for my teammates and everyone else around me," Monne added. "I know how much my parents, professors and coaches have invested in me, and I've worked very hard to not let them down. I'm extremely grateful to receive this honor."

Monne has been a consistent presence at all of Tech's spring practices and tournaments, providing invaluable leadership and expertise to a young team with plenty of newcomers for next season.