Student-Athlete Support Services is dedicated to the personal and professional growth of our student-athletes through the Student-Athlete Development program. It enhances the student-athlete experience in the areas of Career Development, Community Service and Outreach, Leadership, and Honors and Awards. Each area is detailed in nature to meet the individual needs of each student-athlete. Additionally, Student-Athlete Development is charged with the coordination and execution of the Spartan Academic Excellence Gala each year.

Career Development

The Career Development program focuses on preparing the student-athlete population to be career ready upon graduation. The program is based on a three-part process that consists of career exploration, career development and career placement. Our team of professionals ensure personalized attention and tailored support for all student-athletes.

Community Service and Outreach

The Community Outreach program allows student-athletes to gain valuable experience, learn new skills, and develop a sense of involvement within the university and surrounding community. Numerous outreach opportunities are arranged by the Student-Athlete Development Program and the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee including the Student-Athlete Food Drive, March is Reading Month, and Teams for Toys.

Leadership

Through student-athlete development, there are various leadership opportunities available for student-athletes to enhance their skills, foster personal growth, and prepare them for future success. Opportunities available include the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, Women’s Leadership Council, and Student-Athlete Kindness Committee.

Honors & Awards

Student-Athlete Support Services provides various opportunities to recognize the achievements of student-athletes including the Spartan Academic Excellence Gala, Auto-Owners Champions in the Classroom, and PNC Achievers Student-Athletes of the Month. The Student-Athlete Development Program also promotes and guides student-athletes in pursuing post-graduate scholarships from the NCAA, Big Ten Conference and University. 

Academic Excellence Gala

This semi-formal event honors the accomplishments and successes of our student-athletes in the classroom and in the community. During the event, awards presented will honor student-athletes with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or above, the top male and female graduating seniors, two outstanding freshmen/sophomores, the men’s and women’s teams with the highest cumulative GPA, outstanding community service and leadership, and diversity and leadership. Additionally graduating student-athletes are honored.