Roberts Wesleyan College student-athletes know the reward of helping others in need.
Roberts athletics’ partnership with Golisano Children’s Hospital was recognized as the grand prize winner for the 2021 NCAA Division II Award of Excellence at the NCAA Convention earlier this year.
“As a community, Roberts is committed to graduating women and men who know how to connect their head to their heart and engage their hands in service to others,” said Dr. Deana Porterfield, president of Roberts Wesleyan College. “This is at the core of our mission and work. Our Redhawks have exemplified this connection through their commitment to serving the critically ill children of Golisano Children’s Hospital.”
The idea for the partnership began during the 2018-2019 basketball season with a fund-raising effort for the Onnie Wells Child Life Fund. Last year, the athletics department raised over $10,500 for that fund through a month-long fundraising opportunity within the athletics department leading up to a doubleheader basketball game where all money raised was donated to the hospital. All funds raised during the month and at the basketball games were matched by a generous donor and special friend of the Redhawks.
“Roberts Wesleyan College athletics is honored to receive this prestigious award from NCAA Division II,” said Bob Segave, director of athletics. “This is our second time as a finalist because of the effort that our student-athletes have given to make a difference in our community. Working with Golisano Children’s Hospital has been a rewarding partnership that has provided our student-athletes an opportunity to give back to our community.”
Because of their efforts, Athletics will receive $2,500. All prize money is intended for future community engagement events.
Roberts Wesleyan College’s partnership and event with Golisano Children’s Hospital was one of 67 entries submitted to exemplify the Division II philosophy, identity, community engagement and student-athlete leadership initiatives. A total of 65 institutions and two conferences were recognized for their creativity in advancing relationships within their communities. Roberts Wesleyan was the grand prize winner, runner-up was Belmont Abbey College and third place was Texas A&M University-Commerce.
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