DIVERSITY & INCLUSION QUARTERLY UPDATE
AUGUST 2024
Inside Perspective
We asked Chris Spells, Director of Athletics and Recreation at UC-Santa Cruz, a few questions.
How has been the transition to the AD chair? My transition has been unique. I was named as the incoming AD for UCSC in January, with a start date of June 1. This time allowed me to close things out at CMS on my terms, and start to build relationships with the UCSC team.
What is your Division III elevator pitch? We work in education, and our field of expertise is learning and leadership through sport. Here in Division III, that model is not compromised, and is actually continuously reinforced by leadership. Division III continues to be the best option to have a healthy balance between academics, athletics, and extra-curricular activities.
Click here to read the remaining questions and answers.
Did You Know?
The following are the latest updates in Division III:
NCAA Diversity and Inclusion Social Media Campaign
The 2024 NCAA Diversity and Inclusion Social Media Campaign, presented in partnership with the NCAA Minority Opportunities and Interests Committee and national Student-Athlete Advisory Committees, will take place Tues.-Thurs., Oct. 15-17.
Inclusive Leaders Program
Plan ahead and schedule an Inclusive Leaders Program. Division III conferences and institutions can request a two-hour workshop with a trained facilitator. For information about hosting an Inclusive Leaders Program, click here.
Student Immersion Program
For the 10th year, the Division III Student Immersion Program will be Jan. 14-17, in conjunction with the NCAA Convention in Nashville, Tennessee. The application, titled “2025 Division III Student Immersion Program,” is available on the Program Hub and closes at 5 p.m. Eastern time Monday, Sept. 16. Students of color, preferably juniors and seniors with a strong interest in a career in Division III athletics (coaching and/or administration), are encouraged to apply. Final selections will be announced in early October. Participants will learn from professionals, network and have an opportunity to participate in the NCAA Convention. Students accepted into the program will be invited to attend the NCAA Career in Sports Forum hosted in late spring.
Interested in serving on an NCAA Division III committee? Check out the current openingsand click here for the nomination form.
Learning Portal Trainings
Looking to better understand how to use the NCAA’s Learning Portal. Check out these webinars:
Learning Portal Administrator Training: The Basics. Noon-1 p.m. Eastern time, Tuesday, Aug. 13. Register here.
Learning Portal Administrator Training: Reporting. Noon-1 p.m. Eastern time, Wednesday, Aug 21. Register here or Noon-1 p.m. Eastern time, Wednesday, Aug. 28. Register here.
This email was sent to selected individuals in the NCAA Division III Diversity & Inclusion database, and Division III Athletics Diversity and Inclusion Designees based on contact information in the NCAA Directory.
