SUNY Oswego has earned the 2024 NCAA Student-Athlete Community Service Award, which recognizes student-athletes' community engagement on campus, in their collegiate cities and in the surrounding areas.    

SUNY Oswego won the Division III challenge, with student-athletes volunteering 3,890 hours. The school had a 95 percent participation rate, which averaged 7.9 hours per student. Key community outreach events included a community leaf-raking event for senior citizens, visits to elementary school, and a holiday toy drive.

"Giving back is a core value of who we are as student-athletes, and we take pride in making an impact outside the playing field," said Anthony Cascen, a men's wrestling student-athlete. "This recognition is an honor and shows the dedication, teamwork and passion we bring to serving our community. We're grateful for the opportunity to make a difference and inspired to continue to find ways to support our community." 

"We are honored to receive the NCAA community service challenge powered by Helper Helper award for Division III," said Wendy McManus, assistant vice president for student affairs and director of intercollegiate athletics. "Community service isn't just something we do — it's a core value that shapes our student-athletes into compassionate leaders. We're incredibly proud of their dedication and the positive impact they continue to make." 

"We are honored and privileged to have won this award," added Merlin Joseph, Oswego's assistant athletics director for student-athlete success. "Community service is always at the forefront of what we do here at Oswego, and I am glad the efforts put forth by our entire department continue to be celebrated. We will continue to strive to be an example for all NCAA institutions in regard to community service." 

-- Written by Intercollegiate Athletics