Three Schools Win 2025 NCAA/MOAA Award for Diversity and Inclusion
The athletics departments at Villanova, St. Mary’s College of Maryland, and Southern Connecticut State University have been distinguished with the 2025 NCAA and Minority Opportunities Athletic Association (MOAA) Award for Diversity and Inclusion. This accolade highlights their exceptional dedication to nurturing diverse and inclusive environments within their athletic communities, marking a significant achievement for these institutions in promoting equality and acceptance.
A Strong Commitment to Diversity
The NCAA/MOAA Award for Diversity and Inclusion honors institutions that implement initiatives fostering diversity and inclusion through community service, hiring practices, professional development, and programming activities. These efforts are crucial in enhancing opportunities for individuals from various backgrounds. Felicia Martin, senior vice president of inclusion, education, and community engagement at the NCAA, underscored the award’s significance. “The effective application of inclusion is intentional creation of policies, procedures, and practices that acknowledge cultural experiences and invite all voices to the decision-making table,” she stated. “This award recognizes outstanding recipients who diligently create environments of belonging that are safe, equitable spaces for all.”
Villanova’s Unitas Program: Celebrating Augustinian Values
Villanova’s Unitas Program, an initiative launched in 2017, is celebrated for its commitment to diversity and inclusion. Rooted in Augustinian values, Unitas has significantly enriched Villanova’s athletics environment by celebrating differences and fostering a culture of belonging. Led by Leashia Lewis, the assistant athletics director for diversity, equity, and inclusion, the program focuses on creating comprehensive diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategies.
The program is characterized by the establishment of DEI deputies and officers, inclusive hiring practices, and extensive feedback systems like the NCAA DEI Review. With a range of educational modules and events such as the Black Student-Athlete Summit, Unitas enhances cultural competencies and builds partnerships with organizations like RISE. This collaborative effort has cemented Unitas as a cornerstone in promoting inclusivity within Villanova’s athletics department.
St. Mary’s College of Maryland: Embodying the “St. Mary’s Way”
At St. Mary’s College of Maryland, intentional programming and recruitment practices have propelled the athletics department to new heights in terms of diversity and inclusion. The college’s commitment is epitomized by the “St. Mary’s Way,” a pledge by all members of the school community to embrace inclusivity and respect.
St. Mary’s employs rigorous evaluations and assessments, including mandatory diversity reviews and town halls, ensuring continuous refinement of its initiatives. Through events like National Coming Out Day and partnerships with community organizations, the department fosters a supportive environment that celebrates diverse cultures.
The athletics department’s collaboration with local minority vendors and participation in the NCAA Inclusion Forum further exemplifies its dedication to setting a standard of inclusive excellence. Key policies such as requiring diversity statements from job applicants underscore St. Mary’s comprehensive approach to DEI.
Southern Connecticut State University: Innovative Diversity Initiatives
Southern Connecticut State University is recognized for its proactive approach to enhancing diversity through innovative initiatives. The athletics department’s diverse hiring practices and community engagement strategies have fostered an inclusive environment for all student-athletes.
Southern Connecticut emphasizes the importance of diverse recruitment, comprehensive equity audits, and consistent assessments through anonymous climate surveys. Programming such as implicit bias training and Safe Zone training for LGBTQ+ inclusion is pivotal to their DEI efforts.
The university’s engagement with diverse alumni mentorship programs and local community partnerships highlights its commitment to sustaining diverse initiatives. Cultural awareness events and leadership development programs further bolster Southern Connecticut State’s efforts to champion a diverse and inclusive athletics community.
Impact on the Community
This recognition bears significant implications for the communities surrounding these award-winning institutions. It serves as both an inspiration and a challenge for other organizations and schools to prioritize diversity and inclusion. Enhanced DEI practices contribute to a more vibrant, equitable community, encouraging local residents to support and appreciate diversity in various aspects of life.
Furthermore, the initiatives highlighted by these awards can serve as a model for other institutions facing similar challenges in fostering inclusivity. By spotlighting these efforts, Woke News amplifies the positive local impact and broadens understanding of the value inherent in acceptance and diversity.
Looking Forward
As these institutions continue to champion diversity and inclusion, they set a precedent for others and contribute positively to ongoing conversations around equality in collegiate sports. Their efforts will be formally acknowledged at the 2025 NCAA Convention in Nashville, Tennessee, a moment that represents both recognition of past achievements and encouragement for future endeavors.
It is pivotal for local communities to engage with and support these initiatives. Opportunities for involvement abound, and engagement with these programs can further strengthen a communal sense of dedication to diversity and inclusion. Residents are encouraged to attend events or partner with their local university to enhance the reach and effectiveness of these impactful programs.
Recognizing the ongoing challenges and the path toward greater inclusivity, it’s essential that the narratives of positive change, as shared by Woke News, continue to inspire and drive meaningful action nationwide. Through continued partnerships, educational outreach, and community involvement, the standard set by Villanova, St. Mary’s, and Southern Connecticut State can inspire a more inclusive tomorrow for all.
