Oswego Wins Two National Community Service Awards

NADIIIAA/Jostens co-sponsor an awards program to recognize the contributions that Division III student-athletes make to their campuses and local communities.

The Oswego Intercollegiate Athletics Department won the Jostens/National Association Division III Athletic Administrators Community Service Award in two categories: “an array of projects” and “ongoing project/activity” completed during the 2012-2013 academic year. In addition to awarding commemorative trophies for both categories, the NADIIIAA and Jostens will make a $2,000 contribution to the SUNY Oswego general scholarship fund.

Oswego was chosen as the national winner for the second straight year for “an array of projects/activities” and the overall winner for the “ongoing project/activity” out of more than 450 eligible universities.

“Earning the nod in both categories shows the commitment of the student-athletes, the athletic department and community service coordinator Dan Witmer ’82 M’87,” said Director of Athletics Sue Viscomi. “It is an incredible honor to receive two out of the top three national awards. Oswego continues to be very proud of its outstanding effort and engagement in the community.”

For the category “an array of projects,” 24 Oswego Athletic teams participated in 44 different events in 2012-13. The student-athletes supported more than 19 national and local organizations and charities. Overall, 463 student-athletes contributed approximately 3,042 community service hours.

For the category of “ongoing project/activity,” Oswego initiated in 2007 St. Baldrick’s Night in Oswego County. Every year since then, students and community members have come together to shave their heads to raise money for children who are affected by cancer. In 2013, 235 heads were shaved, which raised more than $93,000. The event has raised more than $266,500 for the cause since 2007.

—Michael Bielak

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