JCSU News Release

JCSU Celebrates National STUDENT-Athlete Day

Students Honored for their Achievements in the Classroom and Volunteerism in the Community

April 7, 2008 - In accordance with the National STUDENT-Athlete Day celebrated each year on April 6, the Johnson C. Smith University Department of Athletics recognized its student-athletes’ ability to strike a balance between academic and athletic achievement. Sixteen student-athletes were honored yesterday (April 6) at a small reception recognizing their excellence in the classroom and their volunteerism in the community.

Athletics Director Steve Joyner, Sr. said “This is the first that Johnson C. Smith University has participated in this national event.  We are honoring our student-athletes that have achieved an overall grade point average of 3.0 or better and have significant community service hours on file.  We hope that this event will help our student-athletes and the entire Smith family that we are committed to excellence in the academics, athletics, and service.” 

JCSU is joining with hundreds of other universities, colleges, and high schools across the country in observing the day, established by the National Consortium for Academics & Sports (NCAS) and Northeastern University’s Center for the Study of Sport in Society. National Student-Athlete Day is co-sponsored by the NCAA and the National Federation of State High School Associations.

“We’ve planned several community service activities throughout this month, as well as our annual Spring Fling sponsored by the Golden Bulls 100 Club,” said Dr. Denisha L. Hendricks, Assistant Athletic Director for Internal Operations and Senior Woman Administrator. Hendricks also oversees the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), who were committed to making this event a success. “It is my hope that this will be an annual event and it will continue to grow to include coaches, faculty, staff, and supporters of Golden Bull Athletics that have made it possible for our student-athletes to succeed in all realms of their lives and who use sport as a vehicle to make positive social changes throughout the world.”