Denison University hired Sandra Lopez as assistant coach. Formerly a graduate assistant at Western Illinois, Lopez helped guide the Leatherneck men and women to second- and fourth-place finishes, respectively, at the Midwest Classic Championships.

A graduate of the University of California-San Diego, Lopez experienced tremendous success in her swimming career. She was a 13-time all-American and was the 2001 national champion in both the 100- and 200-meter breaststroke as well as a member of the national champion 400-meter medley relay team. Lopez finished her career at UCSD with three school records and previously held the NCAA Division II record in the 100 and 200 breaststroke.

Lopez received a bachelor’s degree in psychology from UCSD and master's degree in sport management from Western Illinois.