Celebrating the Impact of Student-Athletes

The influence of student-athletes in collegiate sports extends far beyond their achievements on the field. The NCAA Impact Award winners of 2026 exemplify this very notion, showcasing how true significance is grounded in dedication, leadership, and community service. These remarkable individuals not only shine in athletics and academics but also uplift those around them through meaningful contributions to their campuses and local communities.

Highlighting Excellence

Among this distinguished group is Ella Brissett from Claremont-Mudd-Scripps, whose legacy intertwines athletic prowess with mentorship. As a standout in women’s tennis, Brissett not only garnered national accolades—like being a two-time All-American—but also led her team to a national championship. Beyond tennis, Brissett founded the Women’s Empowerment in Sports Club, fostering connections among female athletes and supporting youth engagement initiatives. Her commitment to academics was equally impressive, earning her multiple prestigious awards, including the Division III Commissioners Association Women’s Sport Student-Athlete of the Year.

Mia Levy, representing Yale women’s rowing, embodies the spirit of community and connection. Not just a formidable athlete, Levy was pivotal in leading her team to an NCAA championship. Her passion for mentorship is reflected in her work with the Athlete Ally program and the Yale Prison Education Initiative, where she influenced students’ lives profoundly. Her leadership and service work continue to resonate, underscoring her belief that community bonds elevate everyone’s potential.

Leadership and Legacy

Brayden Long from Slippery Rock football showcases how leadership transcends athletics. Recognized as a scholar-athlete, Long emphasized the balance of academics, sports, and service. He quarterbacks not just on the field but in everyday life, demonstrating his role through connection and kindness. Long’s accomplishments extend to community engagement, including work with the Special Olympics and various service initiatives.

Over at Franklin Pierce, Aino Martikainen pursued both academic excellence and athletic competitiveness. As a remarkable student-athlete, she achieved accolades in soccer while simultaneously championing mental health awareness on campus. Martikainen’s dual achievements reflect her dedication to supporting fellow student-athletes’ well-being, linking her academic and athletic endeavors to a broader community focus.

Empowering the Next Generation

In Nebraska, Micaylon Moore illustrates the power of giving back. He has not only excelled as an athlete, with multiple accolades in track and field, but has also been a community beacon, surpassing 200 hours of service. Moore co-founded both the Black Student-Athlete Association and Husker Healers, embodying his commitment to health-related careers. His belief that empowering others is vital is a testament to how the impact of student-athletes can ripple throughout their communities.

Matt Wrather, a standout from John Carroll football, reflects a core principle of service alongside athletic excellence. Engaging deeply in community service, he co-founded the Student Alumni Association to enhance connections between current students and alumni. His contributions have earned him numerous athletic accolades, including recognition as the nation’s top center. Wrather’s journey illustrates how student-athletes can exemplify leadership both on and off the field.

The Holistic Student-Athlete Experience

Collectively, these student-athletes represent not just their sports but also the essence of collegiate athletics: nurturing a sense of community, celebrating diversity, and committing to service. They establish a model of what it means to be a student-athlete, highlighting that impact is not limited to athletic performance but is also shaped by academic commitment and service to others.

Each of these award winners not only excels in their respective sports but also acts as a catalyst for positive change around them. Their narratives inspire future generations of athletes, proving that success is not solely measured by trophies but also by the depth of one’s contributions to society. In doing so, they pave a path for the next wave of student-athletes who can make a significant difference in both competitive and community arenas. Their stories encourage a redefined perspective of what it means to be a student-athlete—one that highlights the importance of upliftment, service, and resilience.