Jess Connery (Cross Country) and Hannah Herndon (Volleyball) recently represented William Jewell College at the annual Great Lakes Valley Conference Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) meeting held in St. Louis, Mo., May 21 and 22. 

The mission of the William Jewell College Student Athlete Advisory Committee is to provide a student-athlete voice within the NCAA, the conference, and the campus community. SAAC acts as a liaison between student-athletes and administration, encourages involvement, enhances the quality of life of student-athletes, and promotes a positive image for William Jewell athletics, both on and off campus.

On May 22 all of the student athletes had a chance to visit Cardinal Glennon, a children's hospital in the St. Louis area. “We were able to speak with staff and toured the hospital,” said Connery. “We witnessed several programs Cardinal Glennon has set up to successfully utilize and improve pediatric care. That afternoon we volunteered our time to raise money and offer support for Cardinal Glennon. Students from the GLVC showed support by helping with a Homerun Derby, sponsored by the hospital. Two St. Louis Cardinal's players, Matt Holliday and David Freese were able to show their support by encouraging the children to hit homeruns. It was a great opportunity to support a good cause.”

The students then attended a banquet where both current and past athletes of the GLVC were honored for their accomplishments. They then attended an official meeting with all the SAAC representatives from the GLVC. At this meeting they were able to set goals for the upcoming year and shared fundraising ideas.

“We enjoyed the opportunity to meet other athletes from our new conference and we felt welcomed as the newest members,” said Connery.