SPARTAN REPORT News from Aurora University Athletics | December 2015
Members of the Aurora University community make blankets during a Project Linus event.
Volunteers from the AU Student-Athlete Advisory Committee gather goods collected during the Cans Across the Conference food drive and prepare to deliver them to the local food pantry.
Spartans serve community through teamwork A commitment to community service As president of the AU Studentmuch of its energy on making a and helping others has always been an Athlete Advisory Committee difference across campus and beyond. integral part of the Aurora University (SAAC), an on-campus organization identity. We create an environment that helps bring service-learning The group organizes several events where learning happens on all corners opportunities to the Spartan each year, giving back in a big way. of campus and we community, Through activities such as Cans Across “TAKING TIME TO foster connections Maschmeyer says it is the Conference and Project Linus, SERVE OTHERS SHOWS between the classroom, important for student- SAAC is able to collect nonperishable GRATITUDE AND CREATES community and athletes to give back. goods for the local food pantry and A FEELING OF UNITY playing field. provide a sense of security, warmth and BETWEEN OUR ATHLETES “Taking time to serve comfort to children in need through AND THE COMMUNITY” As service projects others shows gratitude the gifts of handmade blankets. become an increasingly and creates a feeling visible part of student life, AU students of unity between our athletes and the “As professionals in higher education, we are building their lives around community,” she said. are empowered to assist the educational character, scholarship and a desire and social development of young adults,” to make a difference. For senior track The mission of the national SAAC is said athletic director Jim Hamad. and cross country runner Sherry to enhance the total student-athlete “Through service-learning opportunities, Maschmeyer, this is certainly true. experience by promoting opportunity, we positively impact communities protecting student-athlete welfare and help create well-rounded student“Volunteering is an important aspect of and fostering a positive studentathletes. These community service my life,” says Maschmeyer. “I grew up athlete image. The AU committee activities are as important to AU learning the importance of realizing what is the voice for Spartan athletes on Athletics as any success we have in you have and how you can help others.” a variety of topics, but also focuses athletic competition.”