Courtesy of Concordia College Athletics

BRONXVILLE, N.Y. (May 24, 2019) – Under the guidance of first-year Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) advisor Carly Mertens, The Concordia College New York SAAC wrapped up one of its most productive semesters in its history this week with 12 community service events during the spring to complete a record-shattering 2018-19 academic year.

"Looking back on this semester, it is incredible what these athletes are capable of," Mertens said. "Between juggling school, sports, and other matters, they still found time to give back to the surrounding communities. In just a few months, they were able to touch the lives of many people from all different walks of life. It truly amazing how highly people talk about them and how big of a difference they are making."

SAAC began the spring 2019 semester with Mental Health Awareness Week from Jan. 28-Feb. 1. Over the course of the week, SAAC raised money for the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) on top of scheduling three guest speakers to speak about mental health. Members of SAAC also raised money for the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center by selling bracelets during the Clippers' annual Jimmy Sayegh Game on Feb. 13.

The Bronxville Reform Church and Wartburg were frequent stops for SAAC members during the spring semester, assisting the church with its Tag Sale on April 11, May 2 and May 4 while organizing two bingo nights at the local nursing home on April 17 and May 8. SAAC also worked alongside the Chapel School on two occasions, welcoming the neighboring school to campus for a Field Day on May 9 before coordinating with the Concordia College men's basketball team to host a pair of gym classes on May 15.

Other community service events that SAAC participated in include serving at a soup kitchen in Mount Vernon on April 5, March for Babies White Plains on April 28 and a book drive for the Child Development Center of Moshulo Montifore Community Center on May 16.

Along with its activities in the community, SAAC also worked on improving the game day environment inside the Meyer Athletic Center with halftime games and prizes during timeouts.

"We have made awesome memories and connections throughout these events," Mertens concluded. "It was a great semester filled with joy, thoughtfulness, care, and fun! I'm looking forward for what the fall has in store for the SAAC."

"We are very proud of Mertens and our Student Athlete Advisory Committee," Director of Athletics / Senior Woman Administrator Kathy Laoutaris said. "They participated in a record number of community service events this past academic year.  We strive to prepare our students for lives of passion purpose and service and our student-athletes are great examples of this mission.  I look forward to the continued work of our advisor and next years' Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. GO CLIPPERS!"