We asked Dahmir Noel, associate athletics director at Alma College, a few questions.
How did the Student Immersion Program impact your career choices? It provided a unique opportunity to connect with other college students who share a passion for sports which allowed us to exchange experiences, discuss our aspirations, and build lasting relationships. It also led me to hear about the open position at my current institution.
What is your favorite “D”? For me, “dedicate” stands out most. Dedication doesn’t require talent, skill, or money; just energy and commitment. I can always choose to dedicate myself fully to the people, places, and pursuits I care about.
Click here to read the remaining questions and answers.
Did You Know?
The following are the latest updates in Division III:
NCAA Woman of the Year
This award recognizes graduating female student-athletes who have excelled in their community, athletics and academic endeavors. Selected from 631 nominees submitted by member schools — a group that was then narrowed to 167 nominees at the conference level — the Top 30 honorees include 10 from each of the three NCAA divisions. Click here to meet the finalists.
Opportunities and Impact Award
The award recognizes one institution, athletics department or conference office per division that elevates student-athlete voices and foster environments of belonging, well-being and collaboration. Submit your nominations, via Program Hub, by Dec. 19.
2026 Convention
The annual NCAA Convention will be Jan. 13-16 at the National Harbor Gaylord in the Washington, D.C., area. Check out the Division III convention homepage for resources, including the legislative proposal chart, that will be posted as they become available.
OneTeam and Inclusive Leaders Programs
The OneTeam Program promotes LGBTQ inclusion in Division III athletics by educating participants on key terms and issues, providing strategies for inclusion and developing facilitation skills through peer-led sessions. The Inclusive Leaders Program provides diversity and inclusion training for coaches and athletics staff, offering strategies to improve recruitment and retention of students of color.
Tip of the Quarter
Division III has engaged the National Council for Mental Wellbeing to fund Division III institutions to receive adult Mental Health First Aid training to support the mental well-being of student-athletes. Institutions are eligible to receive one fully funded training during the program, which is in effect until Aug. 1, 2027. To learn more about the program, click here. To schedule a fully funded Adult MHFA training for your Division III school, athletics directors or athletic trainers should visit mentalhealthfirstaid.org/ncaa/ to complete an inquiry form.
Opportunities and News to Share!
Division III Committee Vacancies
Interested in serving on an NCAA Division III committee? Check out the current openings and click here for the nomination form.
International Student-Athletes
International student-athletes initially enrolling at a Division III institution for the Winter/Spring 2026 term should request final certification through their Eligibility Center account if they have not done so. View the membership FAQ document.
Women's Flag Football
Women’s Flag Football has been officially added to the list of recognized sports. Schools with existing or upcoming programs should review the EC’s guidance on activating the sport in the Eligibility Center Portal.
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.
We asked Dahmir Noel, associate athletics director at Alma College, a few questions. 