The NCAA mandates that each member institution have a Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) on their campus and that each member conference have a SAAC. The Committee is made up of student-athletes assembled to provide insight on the student-athlete experience. The SAAC also offers input on the rules, regulations, and policies that affect student-athletes’ lives on NCAA member institution campuses. There are separate national SAAC’s for each Division within the NCAA. There are 24 members on the Division III National SAAC.
Mission Statement of the National SAAC
The mission of the National Collegiate Athletic Association Student-Athlete Advisory Committee is to enhance the total student-athlete experience by promoting opportunity, protecting student-athlete welfare and fostering a positive student-athlete image.
Function of National SAAC
- Promote communication between athletics administration and student-athletes.
- Disseminate information.
- Provide feedback and insight into athletics department issues.
- Generate a student-athlete voice within the campus athletics department formulation of policies.
- Build a sense of community within the athletics program involving all athletics teams.
- Solicit student-athlete responses to proposed conference and NCAA legislation.
- Organize community service efforts.
- Create a vehicle for student-athlete representation on campus-wide committees (e.g., student government).
- Promote a positive student-athlete image on campus.
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Members of a campus SAAC have the opportunity to address issues affecting student-athletes at their institution; furthermore, members have the opportunity to offer input on issues which may be national in scope. The campus committee is meant to serve as a local student-athlete voice in addressing issues of student-athlete welfare at their respective institutions. Campus committees can facilitate better communication among student-athletes from various athletics teams to address issues common to all.
The campus SAAC may also serve as a conduit of communication among student-athletes, coaches and athletics administrators on issues to improve the student-athlete experience and promote growth and education through sports participation. Concerns can be voiced and solutions offered regarding any issue that may be relevant to NCAA student-athletes.
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Roger Williams University Student-Athlete Advisory Committee
Mentored by Matt Emmert, Head Coach - Men's and Women's Swimming /Aquatics Coordinator; Maura Logan – Head Coach Men’s and Women’s Track & Field / Assistant Coach Men’s & Women’s Cross Country; & TBD
Comprised of team leaders – two to three individuals from each of the varsity teams. Representatives should complete application by August 25 of each academic year. (Each coach is responsible for ensuring team representatives who are in good academic standing and should have the time necessary to devote to participation in the SAAC.)
Elects the following officials for the executive board: President, Vice-President, Secretary, Public Relations Chair. Executive Board will also include a student representative from the sophomore and a student representative from the junior class. CCC SAAC officers will also serve on the Executive board.
SAAC meets twice each month, TBD at the first meeting of the academic year.
The Executive board will meet prior to each scheduled SAAC meeting.
Each team organizes a minimum of two Community Service events per academic year (i.e., Turkey Baskets, Fifth Grader Day, etc.)
