Alfred State has been selected as the runner-up for the National Association of Division III Athletic Administrators (NADIIIAA) Special Olympics, Community Service Award as announced by NADIIIAA today.
Each of the selected institutions has been recognized for the impressive community service projects performed by its student-athletes during the 2022-23 academic year.
The awards recognition took place at the NADIIIAA in conjunction with the NCAA Convention on Friday, January 12, 2024, in Phoenix. In addition to presenting commemorative awards to the three winning institutions, NADIIIAA made up to a $1,000 contribution to the general scholarship fund at each of these institutions.
The NADIIIAA Community Service Awards program, established in 2001, is intended to recognize the many contributions Division III student-athletes regularly make to their campuses and local communities. Recognition is given for projects in three categories: One-Time Activity, Special Olympics Activity, and Community Partnership Award.
In addition to the winners, each category had a runner-up and third place finisher(s). The Alfred State Athletic Department's annual Special Olympics event was recognized as the runner-up in this year's awards ceremony. This is the fourth time Alfred State has received Runner-Up recognition for this event.
The Alfred State College Special Olympics Spectacular is an annual event held at Pioneer Stadium on Alfred State College's campus. Run by the Alfred State athletics department administrators, coaches, and student-athletes, it has impacted the community in more ways than anyone can quantify. The student-athletes, coaches, and administrators of all the teams at Alfred State look forward to putting their time towards a great cause every year. Over 380 student-athletes, students, along with faculty and staff members participate in either the set-up, running, or break down of the event. Alfred State hosted one of the largest outings to date last spring, hosting over 280 Special Olympic athletes, from 14 different schools districts.
Director of Athletics Jason Doviak added, "We are very proud to sponsor this event and partner with Special Olympics of Western NY. This event has evolved into one of the premier Special Olympics activities sponsored by a NCAA Institution. The number of individuals who contribute and participate is extraordinary and we look forward to continuing this relationship and event for years to come."
