Champions of Service: Miami (Florida), Coker, and Oswego State Win NCAA Student-Athlete Community Service Awards

The NCAA is officially celebrating the remarkable community impact of its competitors, as the University of Miami (Florida), Coker University, and Oswego State claim the top honors in the NCAA Student-Athlete Community Service Award. This recognition highlights the leadership and character of student-athletes who dedicate their time to campus initiatives and local outreach across their collegiate cities.

The competition, conducted in partnership with the volunteer tracking platform Helper Helper, monitors both the total hours served and the percentage of a school’s athletic population engaged in service. This year, the collective efforts of student-athletes across Divisions I, II, and III have reached new heights, proving that the drive for excellence extends far beyond the arena.

A National Impact by the Numbers

The scale of service provided by these student-athletes represents a significant economic and social contribution to communities nationwide. The commitment shown this year demonstrates a growing culture of philanthropy within college sports.

“We are continually inspired by the commitment and impact our student-athletes and athletic departments show to their communities,” said Stephannnie Harvey-Vandenberg, NCAA managing director of external engagement. “This dedication to service reflects the leadership and character we strive to cultivate throughout college athletics.”

Division I: University of Miami Leads with Near-Perfect Participation

The University of Miami claimed the Division I title with a staggering 99 percent participation rate among its student-athletes. Averaging nearly 11 hours of service per person, the Hurricanes engaged in a wide array of activities, from the Feeding South Florida food drive to serving as pen pals for local youth.

Dan Radakovich, Miami vice president and director of athletics, emphasized the department’s “servant mindset.” Student-athletes noted that these projects do more than just help the community; they strengthen the internal bonds between teammates and different athletic programs on campus.

Division II: Coker University Sets the Bar for Dedication

Coker University dominated the Division II standings, recording the highest total hours of the three winners with 7,574. Their student-athletes averaged nearly 18 hours of service each. Standout events included youth coaching clinics and the “Treats on the Streets” community event in Hartsville.

Coker leadership praised the department-wide buy-in, noting that strengthening the relationship with the local city and county is a core strategic priority. Student-athletes expressed that these experiences have taught them the importance of service beyond the court, encouraging them to find ways to help without being asked.

Division III: Oswego State Champions Local Leadership

Oswego State took the top spot in Division III, with 95 percent of its student-athletes engaging in community outreach. Their efforts focused on direct local impact, including a massive leaf-raking event for senior citizens, a holiday toy drive, and frequent visits to elementary schools.

Athletic directors at Oswego State noted that community service is a core value that shapes student-athletes into compassionate leaders. The department continues to strive to be a national example of how Division III institutions can integrate service into the collegiate experience.