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Division III Student-Athlete Advisory Committee

The Division III National Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) is a representative body composed of 43 student-athletes from across the country who serve as the national voice for their peers within NCAA Division III. This committee plays a critical role in shaping the student-athlete experience by offering feedback on proposed legislation, engaging in meaningful dialogue with NCAA leadership, and participating in governance processes. Through regular meetings and active involvement in subcommittees and association-wide initiatives, Division III SAAC members advocate for positive change, foster education, and build a supportive and inclusive athletic community.

What does SAAC do?

  • Meet throughout the year to discuss various topics including proposed legislation and current issues, as well as talk to guests, including individuals from NCAA and Division III leadership, the Sport Science Institute, the Board of Governors and more.
    • There are four quarterly meetings: Two are virtual (April/November) and two are in-person – July in Indianapolis at NCAA headquarters, and January in conjunction with NCAA Convention. There are additional virtual meetings as needed to complete committee business.
  • Discuss Division III’s proposed legislation and potential impact on student-athletes.
  • Serve on both Division III and association-wide committees to provide the student-athlete perspective.
  • Form subcommittees based on relevant issues to student-athletes to help spread education and create discussion.
  • Gain professional skills and develop relationships with student-athletes from across the country to best understand Division III.

Who makes up SAAC?

Current Division III SAAC Roster  

  • Dedicated, passionate student-athletes who are willing to learn and participate in discussions, NCAA committees and SAAC subcommittees.
  • Leaders who champion Division III and are motivated to improve the student-athlete experience.
  • Focused student-athletes who understand how to professionally dress, communicate and advocate for what they believe will best suit the needs of Division III student-athletes.
  • Individuals representing a diverse group of sports, geographic regions and backgrounds.

SAAC Members Making a Difference

Division III student-athletes are not only leaders on their teams—they are powerful advocates shaping the future of collegiate athletics. Through their involvement in the Division III SAAC, these student-athletes elevate the voices of their peers, championing important issues from academic balance to mental health, and even reaching the steps of Congress. Their impact extends beyond the playing field, as they work to protect and enhance the student-athlete experience through education, service, and national advocacy. Explore some of their key initiatives and advocacy efforts below:

SAAC Reaches Out to Congress

In March 2025, the NCAA Division III Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), in partnership with Division I and II SAACs, sent a joint letter to members of the U.S. Congress advocating to preserve the student-athlete model in college sports. The committees urged lawmakers to maintain the classification of student-athletes as students—not employees—emphasizing that this distinction allows them to benefit from educational support, scholarships, and personal development opportunities. The letter warned that reclassifying student-athletes as employees could significantly alter the collegiate athletics landscape, place financial strain on institutions, and limit opportunities for athletes in lower-profile sports. This unified advocacy effort received formal support from the Faculty Athletics Representatives Association and the 1A FAR Board of Directors, reinforcing the importance of protecting the academic and developmental mission of college athletics.

Whereas, the NCAA Divisions I, II, and III Student-Athlete Advisory Committees have presented a letter dated March 3, 2025, urging members of the U.S. Congress to maintain the distinct classification of student-athletes as individuals separate from being reclassified as employees of their respective institutions;

Whereas, collegiate athletics play a vital role in fostering personal, academic, and athletic development, teamwork, discipline, and leadership among student-athletes;

Whereas, the current status of student-athletes recognizes the fundamental principle of the collegiate student-athlete model, allowing students to participate in sports while pursuing their education;

Whereas, being classified as students rather than employees ensures student-athletes benefit from academic support services, scholarships, and other educational opportunities, contributing to their overall academic success;

Whereas, the reclassification of student-athletes as employees could undermine the core principles of the collegiate student-athlete model, leading to significant changes in the landscape of collegiate sports; and Whereas, considering student-athletes as employees may create financial burdens on institutions and potentially restrict opportunities for student-athletes from lower profile sports programs;

Be it resolved that both the Faculty Athletics Representatives Association Executive Committee and the Board of Directors of the 1A Faculty Athletics Representatives, representing the Faculty Athletics Representatives at the more than 1,100 NCAA campuses, fully support the NCAA Divisions I, II, and III Student-Athlete Advisory Committee in their statement to the members of the U.S. Congress to retain the distinct classification of student-athletes as students rather than reclassifying them as employees of their institutions.

Respectfully,
The Executive Committee of Faculty Athletics Representatives Association 
The Board of Directors of the 1A Faculty Athletics Representative

Student-Athlete Advocacy Toolkit

Proceedings:

Division III Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Resources