Aug. 17, 2007

Johnson C. Smith University has been selected for the NCAA CHAMPS/Life Skills Program, as announced by the NCAA. JCSU becomes the eighth school in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) to join the program.

Implemented in NCAA institutions in 1994, the CHAMPS/Life Skills Program was created to support the student-athlete development initiatives of NCAA member institutions and to enhance the quality of the student-athlete experience within the context of higher education.

In the process of achieving this mission, the CHAMPS/Life Skills Program will:  

·         Promote student-athletes' ownership of their academic, athletic, career, personal and community responsibilities.      

·         Meet the changing needs of student-athletes.             

·         Promote respect for diversity and inclusion among student-athletes.             

·         Assist student-athletes in identifying and applying transferable skills.             

·         Enhance partnerships between the NCAA, member institutions and their communities for the purpose of education.      

·         Foster an environment that encourages student-athletes to effectively access campus resources.              

·         Encourage the development of character, integrity and leadership skills.

Participating institutions in the CHAMPS/Life Skills Program are provided with instructional materials and supplemental resources which support a student-athlete's development in five areas: academics, athletics, personal development, career development and community service. 

"We are very excited to be selected as a part of this prestigious program," remarked Dr. Denisha Hendricks, Assistant Athletic Director/Senior Woman Administrator who will oversee the program. "We look forward to taking advantage of all the opportunities and access to resources that it will provide. This program is sure to enhance the personal and professional development of our student-athletes."

Dr. Hendricks will attend the 2008 NCAA CHAMPS/Life Skills Orientation and Continuing Education Conferences in Kansas City, Mo from February 3-8.

Johnson C. Smith is one of 39 institutions that have been selected to the NCAA CHAMPS/Life Skills Class of 2008. Those 39 institutions bring the total number of institutions and conference offices affiliated with the program to 584, affecting thousands of student-athletes daily.