Celebrating Excellence: The 2026 NCAA/MOAA Opportunities and Impact Award Recipients

The NCAA and the Minority Opportunities Athletic Association (MOAA) have officially announced the recipients of the 2026 Opportunities and Impact Award. This prestigious honor recognizes athletics departments and conference offices across all three divisions that have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to fostering environments of belonging, supporting student-athlete well-being, and amplifying the student-athlete voice.

The awards will be formally presented during the MOAA Symposium in Las Vegas, scheduled for June 7-10, 2026. This year’s honorees—the Big Ten Conference, Saint Michael’s College, and Occidental College—have set a national standard for intentional inclusion and community engagement.

Division I: The Big Ten Conference

The Big Ten was honored for its comprehensive approach to student-athlete empowerment and civic education. For the past four years, the conference has facilitated an immersive journey to Alabama, where student-athletes study the Civil Rights Movement through visits to historic sites and service projects.

Key Big Ten initiatives include:

• Mentorship Programs: Connecting student-athletes with elementary students in Indianapolis for virtual guidance and encouragement.
• Structured Dialogue: Utilizing exit surveys and leadership councils to ensure student feedback directly informs conference strategy.
• Inclusive Excellence: Programs such as United as One and the B1G Fellows Program provide professional development and community-building opportunities.

Division II: Saint Michael’s College

Saint Michael’s was recognized for its student-centered mission that prioritizes character and connection over competition alone. The department has successfully interwoven athletics into the broader fabric of campus life and community service.

Notable Saint Michael’s highlights:

• Mental Health Advocacy: Partnering with Hope Happens Here and Morgan’s Message to eliminate the stigma surrounding student-athlete mental health.
• Community Integration: Active participation in Best Buddies and the local volunteer Fire and Rescue organization.
• Team IMPACT Leadership: Named the Team IMPACT NCAA Division II Fellowship Campus of the Year for 2024-25, creating life-changing bonds between athletes and children with serious illnesses.

Division III: Occidental College

Occidental College has been a beacon for integrating JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) principles into the daily athletic experience. Their “One Tiger, Many Stripes” philosophy serves as a guiding principle for all teams.

Strategic efforts at Occidental include:

• JEDI Conversation Starters: Facilitated discussions that connect sport with personal identity and lived experiences, fostering trust in locker rooms.
• Campus Advocacy: Collaborative efforts with the campus Project SAFE office to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence during Empowerment Week.
• The JEDI Pledge: An official commitment signed by athletes affirming standards of respect and care across the department.