What is the NCAA Student-Athlete Affairs Program?
The mission of the NCAA is to maintain intercollegiate athletics as an integral part of the campus education program and the student-athlete as an integral part of the student body. With this in mind, Student-Athlete Affairs was created to support the student-athlete initiatives of NCAA member institutions and to enhance the quality of the student-athlete experience within the context of higher education.
In the process of achieving this mission, the Student-Athlete Affairs will:
- Promote student-athletes' ownership of their academic, athletic, career, personal and community responsibilities;
- Meet the changing needs of student-athletes;
- Promote respect for diversity and inclusion among student-athletes;
- Assist student-athletes in identifying and applying transferable skills;
- Enhance partnerships between the NCAA, member institutions and their communities for the purpose of education;
- Foster an environment that encourages student-athletes to effectively access campus resources;
- Encourage the development of character, integrity and leadership skills.
Program Commitment Areas
Commitment to Academic Excellence
To support the academic progress of the student-athlete toward intellectual development and graduation.
Commitment to Athletic Excellence
To build philosophical foundations for the development of competitive athletic programs that are broad-based, equitable and dedicated to the well being of the student-athlete.
Commitment to Personal Development
To support the development of a well-balanced lifestyle for student-athletes, encouraging emotional well-being, personal growth and decision-making skills.
Commitment to Career Development
To encourage the student-athlete to develop and pursue career and life goals.
Commitment to Service
To engage the student-athlete in service to his/her campus and surrounding community.
Past Student-Athlete Development Programs
Student-Athlete Leadership - "Build Up Your Leadership"
• Speaker: Elaine Penn
Mental Toughness Training
• Speaker: Ice Box
Career Panel hosted in collaboration with the Catamount Club - "Life After Sport"
• Speakers:
• Kevin Murphy: Concepts Food Group, Executive Vice President
• Kirk Roach: ADP Payroll Solutions, Sales Executive
• Kim Cherry-Beck: Academic Advisor, Western Carolina University
Learning Commons Workshop: Academic Skills Consultation
Stress Management - Writing and Learning Commons
Intercultural Programming
• "Sensitivity Training": Ethnic, Cultural, LGBT
• Speakers: Office of Intercultural Affairs and SAASS Office
Nutrition and Dietetics
• Alcohol choices, addiction behaviors, supplements, eating disorders
"Next Steps"
• Financial planning/fiscal responsibility
"Transitioning into Western Carolina University"
• Speakers: Counseling Center, Office of Student-Affairs, SAASS Office
April hosted in collaboration with the Catamount Club
• Young Professional Etiquette Dinner
