Bethany College announced this week that Jonna Burke, a veteran coach with more than three decades of experience, will lead the Bison women's basketball program starting next season. The appointment marks a new chapter for the program as it seeks to build on its recent competitive strides.
A Legacy of Winning
Burke arrives with a coaching résumé that includes stints at Shady Side Academy, Bethel Park High School and Butler High School, where she amassed more than 500 career victories. Under her guidance, Shady Side Academy captured two PIAA District VII Class 3A championships and finished as state runners‑up, while Bethel Park secured a District VII Class 4A title in 2013. She was also honored as Trib High School Sports Network Class 3A Coach of the Year four times and earned Class 6A Coach of the Year accolades in 2020.
From Player to Coach
Before turning to coaching, Burke distinguished herself as a standout player at the University of Pittsburgh from 1990 to 1994. She earned three All‑Big East selections, was named the 1991 Big East Rookie of the Year, and remains among the program’s all‑time leaders in scoring, rebounding and steals. Her collegiate achievements were later recognized with inductions into the University of Pittsburgh Walk of Fame and the ACC Legends Class of 2016.
Burke’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in English writing and a Master of Education, both earned at the University of Pittsburgh. Her early coaching roles at Butler High School culminated in a sectional championship, setting the stage for her progressive rise through Pennsylvania’s high school basketball ranks.
College officials highlighted Burke’s deep ties to the region and her proven ability to develop talent when announcing the hire. They expressed confidence that her blend of playing excellence, coaching success and educational foundation will elevate the Bison program and foster growth both on and off the court.