WSSU, SIAC recognized as finalists for NCAA award

(WSSU photo)

When most people think of collegiate athletics, they think of action on the field or on the court. And while that is the most visible portion of college sports, engagement of the campus and community through special events is also part of it.

Winston-Salem State University and the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference have both been nominated for the NCAA Division II Award of Excellence for events they put on during the year, the NCAA announced on Wednesday.

Two runner-up recipients and one overall winner will be announced during the Division II Business Session at the 2017 NCAA Convention on Jan. 21 in Nashville, Tennessee. The winner will receive $1,500 and a nationally televised football or basketball game during the 2017-18 season. The first runner-up will receive $1,250, and the second runner-up will receive $1,000. All prize money is expected to be used on future community engagement initiatives.

WSSU was honored for it’s “She’s Got It Covered Classy Hat Affair” in February. The event was a celebration of National Girls and Women in Sports Day and a fundraiser for scholarships in women’s sports at WSSU.

The SIAC, the lone conference listed as a finalist, was recognized for its “Go Green Initiative.” The conference worked to create and enhance recycling programs at their member schools.