GLENSIDE -
Arcadia University's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) had a productive and impactful semester, making meaningful contributions to both the campus and the surrounding community.
SAAC kicked off the fall semester with its annual Pie-in-the-Face fundraiser in September. Students, faculty, and members of the Arcadia community purchased "pies" to rub in the faces of willing participants, including executive board members, athletic coaches, athletic trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, and professors. This event not only raised funds to support SAAC initiatives, including the Breathing Room Foundation, but also brought the Arcadia community together for a fun and engaging start to the semester. Held on a beautiful day on Haber Green, the event raised over $400 to support SAAC throughout the year.
Continuing our partnership with the Glenside Rotary Club and Special Olympics, SAAC coordinated weekly volunteer efforts in which one Arcadia sports team per week assisted with Special Olympics volleyball practices in Arcadia's Multi-Purpose Center. From September through early December, student-athletes helped set up equipment, run drills, participate in games, and show support for the incredible athletes that we have been working with for years. This partnership remains a favorite among SAAC representatives and resulted in an all-time number of volunteer hours.
November 4-9 was especially busy for SAAC. In addition to the NCAA Inclusion Social Media Campaign, SAAC celebrated Arcadia's Sports Information Directors (SIDs). Adam Planamento, Matt Milich, and Theresa Reed were each featured on the SAAC Instagram, where they shared their roles, inspirations, and perspectives on Arcadia Athletics. On November 7, the executive board, SAAC representatives, and athletes decorated the SID office and surprised them with a personalized card to show appreciation for their dedication and hard work.
SAAC also partnered with Campus Recreation and the men's and women's basketball teams to host the annual Family Promise Food Drive. Family Promise, a local food bank in Montgomery County, PA, supports families in need through food and essential resources. The drive took place during the Battle of 309 basketball games, where fans who donated received free admission. With support from Arcadia athletes, the campus community, and Gwynedd Mercy, SAAC donated over 500 pounds of food to Family Promise.
Upon returning from winter break, SAAC participated in Get Lit, a campus-favorite event. At Get Lit, SAAC provided a make-your-own candy bag station, and student-athletes dropped off their donations for The Breathing Room Foundation. Teams had the option of sponsoring a child through the program, or donating to the foundation from their warmth items list. Through SAAC and The Breathing Room, Arcadia student-athletes sponsored and provided gifts for 15 children, and donated blankets, hats, gloves, coats, and clothing items.
Arcadia SAAC is proud of the accomplishments achieved this fall and looks forward to continuing its efforts to serve, support, and engage the community in the spring semester.
