The Network - Summer 2025

THE NETWORK UNITED STATES SPORTS UNIVERSITY

Summer 2025

FROM ACADEMY TO UNIVERSITY

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Board of Trustees Dr. Nick Niccolai Chair Mobile, AL Vincent Butta Lloyd Harbor, NY Dr. Steve Condon Daphne, AL Joan Cronan Knoxville, TN Joe Durant Pensacola Beach, FL Ann Meyers Drysdale Huntington Beach, CA Dr. China Jude Highlands Ranch, CO Karen Hong Fairhope, AL

Dr. Tim Letzring Orlando, FL Dr. Lee A. McElroy Troy, NY

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From The Desk of the President

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Cover Story: Historic Name Change

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2025 Commencement

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USSU Debuts Sports MBA

Dr. T. J. Rosandich Fairhope, AL

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Joan Cronan - WBCA Lifetime Award

Jack Scharr St. Louis, MO

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Dr. McElroy Inducted into NACDA HOF

Randy Smith Orange Beach, AL

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Inaugural Eagles Athletic Awards

Dr. Reggie Sykes Mobile, AL

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A Global Impact in Sports Education

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ASAMA High School Art Contest

Joseph Szlavik Washington D.C. Tina Xavie Beverly Hills, CA Walter Wukasch Austin, TX

USSU Mission The United States Sports Academy is an accredited university providing forwardthinking education, specialized research, and superior service in the global realm of sports. We prepare and empower future leaders for a multifaceted and successful career in global sports through excellence in teaching, advanced scholarship, professional practice, and transformational learning.

Editorial Staff Design & Direction: Sophie Brooks Managing Editor: Kimiko Lumsden Contributing Writer: Shealynn Miller Contributing Writer: Eric Mann Photos by: Jon Hauge & Sophie Brooks

From The Desk of the President

As we prepare for the first doctoral residency hosted on campus in 20 years, we are inspired by the 20 students traveling to Daphne. Lecturing to this group are our own Dr. China Jude, President of Business Operations for Motor City Cruise; Dr. Monica Singhania, a world-renowned expert and scholar on sustainability from India; Chris Plonsky, Senior Associate Director of Athletics and Senior Woman Administrator at the University of Texas; Dr. Stephanie Cameron, our new resident scholar leading sports psychology; and Simone Eli, WKRG Sports Anchor and adjunct faculty member in residence for sports journalism.

Where else could you go and learn from these world-class experts, socialize, and build lifelong friendships with peers from

President Steve Condon, Ph.D.

around the globe, and truly “touch your future”?

The answer is: The United States Sports University!

With fall enrollment approaching 500 students and our newly accredited MBA program in place, we are enjoying the energy that comes from positive momentum. Along with new programs, our faculty are working on a research proposal for the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee.

We’re pleased to welcome Dr. Mark Deaton, an expert in Exercise Physiology, who will be joining our faculty in June. This fall our women’s volleyball and women’s soccer teams will compete in earnest after hiring head coach Kelli Trautmann & Neil Scott.

We are ready—proud of our past but excited by the visible future. We invite you to join us in continuing to send students and key resources our way. This upcoming edition of The Network magazine will show the progress we have made in the past few months. And yet, we all believe that the best is still to come!

Hope to see you visiting campus someday soon!

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A HISTORIC NAME CHANGE: FROM ACADEMY TO UNIVERSITY The United States Sports Academy (USSA) officially became the United States Sports University (USSU) on March 1, 2025, marking a pivotal moment in the institution’s evolution. This change, approved by the Board of Trustees, reflects USSU’s ambition to solidify its position as a premier leader in sports education.

“The Board of Trustees recognized our need to promote our excellent university status by adding that officially to our name and brand,” said USSU President Dr. Steve Condon. “As we grow and advance our elite brand of sports education, it is important for the public to know that we are a proud sports university recognized globally for the quality of our educational degrees.”

For over fifty years, USSU has been a trailblazer in providing specialized programs in sports exercise science, sports management, coaching, and leadership. The decision to adopt “University” signals the next strategic push toward positioning USSU as a recognized leader in sports education for students seeking high-impact, comprehensive programs.

The name change comes amidst a period of significant enrollment growth and program expansion. USSU recently launched intercollegiate athletics teams, joining the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA), and introduced new academic programs to meet the evolving demands of the sports industry. Among them is a Master of Business Administration in sports management through the Cronan-Summitt School of Sport Business.

The shift to “University” will also allow USSU to enhance its academic offerings, build stronger partnerships within the sports industry and other universities, and provide new opportunities for both students and alumni alike.

“Becoming the United States Sports University signifies more than just a name change – it reflects our evolution, ambition, and commitment to become the global center for excellence in sports higher education,” USSU Associate Vice President for Academics and Cronan-Summitt School of Sport Business Dean Dr. Brandon Spradley said. “This transition strengthens our academic identity and enhances our ability to develop future leaders in the sports industry.”

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Since 1972, USSU has served as the oldest, free-standing accredited sports university in the United States. USSU was originally founded to address a void in professional development for coaches, athletic trainers, and sports managers. The National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) played a vital role in establishing the institution’s first Board of Advisors.

Their involvement led the way for decades of impactful research and hands-on learning.

As the United States Sports University enters its next era, it will continue to honor its history while embracing the changes and challenges of the future. The rebranding marks a renewal of the university’s promise to promote a culture of excellence, leadership, and integrity in sports education through comprehensive academic programs and impactful industry partnerships.

By fall of 2025, USSU will unveil its new logo and branding efforts that have been over a year in the making.

A C A L L T O AC T ION F O R A LUMNI The name change represents more than a new title. It’s a call to action for the entire USSU community. Alumni are a significant part of this historic transformation, and now is the time to reconnect, reengage, and reignite the pride of being a USSU graduate.

STAY CONNECTED:

VISIT THE CAMPUS:

GET INVOLVED:

CELEBRATE THE LEGACY & FUTURE:

Follow USSU on

Experience the new

Share your career

social media to stay

USSU branding and

journey with current

Spread the word

informed about the

witness the expansion

students, attend

about USSU’s

latest developments

of academic and

alumni events,

commitment to

and update your

athletic programs

and contribute to

advancing sports

contact information

firsthand. Speak

new initiatives that

education and mission

by reaching out to

to your favorite

strengthen the USSU

to inspire the next

alumni@ussa.edu.

professors in person!

network.

generation of leaders.

While we celebrate our history, we embrace the opportunities ahead. Join us as we move forward together—from Academy to University—a new name, a renewed mission, and a future defined by excellence in sports education.

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T H E U N I T E D S TAT E S S P O RT S U N I V E R S I T Y C E L E B R AT E S

20 25 C O M M E N C E M E N T On Friday, May 2, 2025, the United States Sports University (USSU) proudly hosted its first 2025 Commencement Ceremony under its new name at the Daphne Civic Center in Daphne, Alabama.

Honoring t h e Cl a ss o f 2 0 2 5 Twenty-two graduates walked the stage, representing all levels of academic achievement: 4 Bachelor’s degrees 8 Master’s degrees 10 Doctoral degrees This group included new graduates, returning alumni attending for the first time, and doctoral candidates preparing to defend their dissertation by year’s end.

C om m encem e n t Sp ea ke r : Dr. Gar y Cunni ngham Dr. Gary Cunningham, former UCLA men’s basketball coach and long-time collegiate athletic director, delivered the commencement address. With a career marked by leadership at institutions such as Western Oregon State College, Fresno State, and UC Santa Barbara, Dr. Cunningham emphasized the importance of academic achievement, following opportunities presented, and never giving up in the face of adversity.

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In recognition of his distinguished career in sport leadership and higher education, Dr. Cunningham was presented with an Honorary Doctorate and the Thomas P. Rosandich Distinguished Service Award, the institution’s highest honor for lifetime achievement and service to sport.

I n M em o r y : Ho no r i ng Dr. Russel l M . Co l ey A heartfelt tribute honored the legacy of the late Dr. Russell M. Coley, a former USSA Vice President and a pioneer in international sport education.

Dr. Coley worked closely with founder Dr. Thomas P. Rosandich to expand the university’s mission across the globe.

A respected coach and administrator, Dr. Coley was instrumental in promoting both the university and sport development worldwide. He led the university’s operations in the Middle East, where he significantly advanced sport education and training in the region.

In recognition of his lifelong commitment to the global sport movement, Dr. Coley was posthumously awarded the Thomas P. Rosandich Distinguished Service Award. The award was accepted by his family, including Connie Coley Loden, Rebecca Coley, and Tony Loden.

A Mil eston e fo r t h e Un i v e r s i t y This Commencement not only recognized individual achievement but also symbolized the bold transformation of the university itself.

The transition to United States Sports University signifies an expanded mission: to lead in sport and human performance education on a global scale.

Just as meaningful was the presence of family and friends, whose support reminded everyone that academic achievement is rarely a solo journey.

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USSU DEBUTS SPORTS MBA Since 1972, USSU has been a pioneer in preparing the next generation of sport professionals.

Now, USSU is proud to announce the opening of applications for its newly launched Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Sports Management program, set to officially begin in Fall 2025 through the Cronan-Summitt School of Sport Business.

This innovative program delivers a powerful blend of core business training and specialized sport industry knowledge, preparing students to lead in professional, collegiate, and international sports arenas.

“The United States Sports University has been the gold standard in sports management for over 50 years,” USSU President Dr. Steve Condon said. “This newly developed MBA capitalizes on the success of our alumni, current best practices in the industry, and top-tier faculty driven to student success.”

MSS C/O ‘94 Dennis Lindsey Senior VP of Basketball Operations, Detroit Pistons.

A C ur r i c u l u m Bu i l t for t h e Indus tr y Students enrolled in the MBA in Sports Management will master leadership, strategic planning, finance, economics, and analytics while gaining in-depth knowledge in sports marketing and sponsorship, facility and event management, sports law and risk management, and revenue generation and athletic operations. Graduates will be well-positioned to thrive in high-level roles, such as general managers, athletic directors, sports agents, and executives following in the footsteps of many accomplished USSU alumni.

“Our new MBA program represents a significant step forward for the Cronan-Summitt School of Sport Business,” said Dr. Brandon Spradley, Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs. “It embodies the leadership and excellence demonstrated by Joan Cronan and Pat Summitt throughout their careers. By combining business acumen with specialized sports management expertise, this program honors their legacy while empowering the next generation of sports industry leaders.”

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The program will be taught by distinguished faculty and industry experts with extensive academic and professional experience in business and sports management, including Dr. Lee McElroy, legendary collegiate athletics administrator, and guest lecturers, such as Dr. China Jude and Ann Meyers Drysdale.

Jude, a graduate of USSU, is currently President of Business Operations for the Detroit Pistons G-League team the “Motor City Cruise” and Drysdale is currently serving as a sports broadcaster for the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury and was a world-class athlete at UCLA. Both guest lecturers are examples of “master professionals” you can only find under this program.

Fl e x i b i l i ty for Worki n g Profe s s ionals The MBA program is offered fully online, making it ideal for working professionals. Students can begin coursework as early as Summer 2025, with all credits directly applying to the MBA. The program also offers exclusive networking opportunities with industry leaders, which provides invaluable career pathways in the evolving sports sector.

Applications are now open. Early submission is encouraged. Visit ussa.edu or email graduateadmissions@ussa.edu to learn more and secure your spot.

USSU BSS in Exercise Science – Specialization in Strength and Conditioning Earns Renewed Recognition from National Strength & Conditioning Association USSU’s impact doesn’t stop at the graduate level. On May 2, 2025, the university’s Bachelor of Sports Science (BSS) in Exercise Science with a specialization in Strength and Conditioning earned renewed recognition from the National Strength & Conditioning Association’s Educational Recognition Program (NSCA-ERP).

This distinction confirms USSU’s ongoing commitment to preparing students for the gold standard in certification—CSCS. ​As an NSCA-ERP, USSU continues to offer exceptional opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to connect, grow, and lead in the performance training field.

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USSU TRUSTEE JOAN CRONAN EARNS WBCA LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Joan Cronan, a leader in women’s athletics and a member of the United States Sports University’s Board of Trustees, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Betty F. Jaynes Lifetime Achievement Award by the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA). The award, named after the WBCA’s first and longest-serving executive director, recognizes individuals who have significantly impacted the advancement of women’s basketball.

An LSU graduate with an honorary doctorate from the USSU, Cronan began her career in 1965 as an assistant basketball coach and math teacher at Opelousas High School in Louisiana. In 1968, she was hired at the University of Tennessee as basketball coach and professor.

After a 10-year career as athletic director at the College of Charleston, Cronan returned to Knoxville in 1983 where she served as women’s athletic director, athletic director, vice chancellor, advisor to the chancellor and consultant. Today, she continues her work as athletic director emeritus.

A proven leader with success in both personal and professional accomplishments, Cronan built a team-first atmosphere through her loyalty and trustworthiness. Of Cronan, the late great Pat Summitt said, “Joan’s vision, passion, and tireless efforts to grow women’s athletics and to promote women’s opportunities have made a huge difference across the nation for women in sports.”

Throughout her career, Cronan has been inducted into 11 Halls of Fame for her many accomplishments, including the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, the Tennessee and Louisiana Sports Halls of Fame, the Greater Knoxville Sports Hall of Fame, the Tennessee Athletics Hall of Fame and the University of Tennessee Educators Hall of Honor. Her legacy as a leader, mentor, and advocate continues to inspire the next generation of sport leaders.

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NEWEST NACDA HALL OF FAME MEMBER: DR. LEE MCELROY For over four decades, Dr. Lee McElroy has been a transformative leader in collegiate athletics. In recognition of his impact, he has been inducted into the NACDA Hall of Fame, Class of 2025.

A USSU Board of Trustees member since 2011, McElroy began his administrative journey at California State University-Sacramento in 1989, where he laid the foundation for a remarkable career. He later served as athletic director at American University.

In 2000, McElroy found his home at the University at Albany, leading the school’s transition from Division II to Division I. Under his 14-year tenure, UAlbany secured 74 conference titles and made 31 NCAA post-season appearances. He was named Emeritus Vice President and Director of Athletics in 2014.

From 2015 to 2023, McElroy continued his legacy at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), further shaping collegiate sport programs and mentoring future leaders. A passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, McElroy was inducted into the McLendon Foundation Hall of Fame in 2012 and received the MOAA Distinguished Service Award in 2015. His service to NACDA includes roles as Executive Committee member (2000–2001), President (2006–2007), and Athletics Director of the Year (2008–2009).

“We are especially grateful for Dr. McElroy’s willingness to invest his time, wisdom, and experience in the academic and professional journey of our students,” said Dr. Brandon Spradley, Associate Vice President of Academics. “Our goal is to instill the same level of commitment and dedication in our students that Dr. McElroy has exhibited throughout his career.”

USSU proudly congratulates Dr. McElroy on this well-earned honor and thanks him for his continued dedication to shaping the future of sport administration.

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A NIGHT OF HONOR USSU’s Inaugural Eagles Athletic Awards Ceremony

By Shealynn Miller On Tuesday, April 29, 2025, the Spanish Fort Community Center buzzed with pride and celebration as the United States Sports University hosted its inaugural Eagles Athletic Awards Ceremony: a historic evening honoring the trailblazing achievements of the university’s first athletic teams.

The event brought together studentathletes, coaches, university faculty and staff, and community supporters in a tribute to a year filled with firsts, setting a strong foundation for the culture of the USSU athletics program moving forward.

“Tonight, we celebrate not just victories and milestones—we celebrate a legacy in the making,” said Shealynn Miller, Associate Director of Athletics, in her opening remarks.

The night recognized the exceptional effort and leadership of the student-athletes who made history by being the first teams to wear “USSA” across their chests.

As the evening concluded, the overarching message was clear: this was a celebration of the first chapter of a growing legacy. “This is only the beginning,” the crowd was reminded.

And if this inaugural class is any indication, the future of USSU Athletics is destined to soar.

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A W A R D

H I G H L I G H T S

Leading Eagle Award: Christian Aikens

Academic Cup: USSA Softball Team

Track and field standout Christian Aikens received the night’s highest character honor for his embodiment of integrity, compassion, and leadership. Known for his humility and team-first mindset, Aikens represents what it means to be an Eagle on and off the field.

With an impressive 3.71 team GPA, five President’s List honorees, and fourteen on the Dean’s List, the softball team set the standard for scholarly distinction by leading in the classroom.

Sammy Eagle Spirit Award: Charlie Ruiz Men’s soccer defender Charlie Ruiz was recognized for his unwavering sportsmanship and respect for the game. A quiet leader and a positive force, Ruiz earned praise for uplifting his teammates and exemplifying the true spirit of USSU Athletics.

Female Iron Eagle Award: Hailey Vanbrimmer Softball infielder Hailey Vanbrimmer demonstrated dedication to strength and conditioning, leading with grit, focus, and perseverance while inspiring and motivating her teammates in the weight room.

Scholar-Athlete of the Year: Olivia Watkins Maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA over 86 credit hours, Watkins earned the highest academic honor, recognizing her outstanding academic and athletic balance. She was also named a 2025 Junior Marshal.

Freshman of the Year: Evan Jacob Freshman catcher Evan Jacob made an immediate impact, hitting .429 with 5 home runs and 30 RBIs over 35 games, while excelling defensively and contributing to team culture all while maintaining a 3.68 GPA. Coach of the Year: Morgan Cinello

Aikens claimed his second honor of the night for setting the tone for a championship training culture in the weightroom through his dedication, leadership, and work ethic.

In her debut season, Coach Morgan Cinello was named Coach of the Year for her outstanding leadership, team success, and commitment to developing student-athletes on and off the field.

In just one season, she built a culture of excellence, discipline, and support, earning widespread respect across the USSU community.

Wings of Service Award: USSA Softball Team

Female Athlete of the Year: Sydney Taylor

Honored for their community engagement, the softball team volunteered at the Turkey Trot, Miracle League, Admiral Shellfish Company, and led an 8U youth clinic this past academic year.

Infielder Sydney Taylor played a key role in USSA Softball’s success, hitting .326 with 20 RBIs over 34 games and making impactful plays, including a walk-off win.

She leads with sportsmanship, excels academically with a 3.94 GPA, and was named a 2025 Junior Marshal.

Game of the Year: Baseball Walk-Off vs. Xavier – February 7, 2025

Male Athlete of the Year: Hayden Jones

In a defining moment of the season, USSU baseball stunned Xavier University of Louisiana with a 4–3 walk-off win. This game was marked by high intensity, teamwork, and an unforgettable finish.

The team demonstrated both strategy and perseverance under pressure.

Hayden Jones was a key contributor for the Eagles Baseball team, batting .350 with 5 home runs and 29 runs over 35 games. As a leadoff hitter and left fielder, he brought consistency and leadership, while excelling academically with a 3.78 GPA and being named a 2025 Junior Marshal.

Male Iron Eagle Award: Christian Aikens

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A Global Impact in Sports Education On March 24, 2025, USSU took a major step in advancing its international presence by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Comenius University Bratislava, the largest and oldest university in Slovakia. This historic partnership allows for mutual student exchange, collaborative research, and a deepening of international ties between the U.S. and Eastern Europe.

Under the ERASMUS+ program of the European Union, Comenius students will have the opportunity to study at USSU, and USSU students will gain access to educational exchange in Bratislava, Slovakia.

“Our academic collaboration with Comenius University marks an exciting step forward in advancing sports education and research on a global scale,” said Dr. Brandon Spradley, Associate Vice President of Academic Affairs and Dean of the Cronan-Summitt School of Sport Business.

This initiative was made possible through the leadership of Dr. Cristian Zaharia, OLY, Assistant Professor and Director of International Sports Business Development, and Dr. Spradley, working closely with Dr. Joseph Tancer, Vice-Rector for International Relations at Comenius University, and His Excellency Mr. Radovan Javorcik, Ambassador of the Slovak Republic to the U.S.

“This partnership underscores the profound synergy between academics and sports, which share values such as discipline, intellectual curiosity, commitment, and resilience,” said Dr. Zaharia. “More significantly, this collaboration transcends educational boundaries by forging a robust bridge between two academic institutions—and two nations.”

Founded in 1919, Comenius University is Slovakia’s leading public research institution. USSU, founded in 1972, has operated in 67 countries worldwide, making this partnership a natural alignment of mission and ambition.

“This MOU sets a benchmark for international cooperation in sports academia,” Zaharia added.

“It marks the beginning of USSU’s role as a global driver of academic collaboration and innovation.”

USSU also formalized a strategic alliance with the Bangladesh School Sports Association (BSSA), a member of the International School Sports Federation (ISSF). This initiative focuses on sportsmanship, physical education, and youth leadership through a series of collaborative events, programming, and academic support. The partnership is part of USSU’s broader strategy to expand educational offerings throughout South Asia.

“The signing of this MOU marks a significant milestone in the efforts to integrate sports and academic values,” said Dr. Zaharia. “By expanding our reach into the Asian market, we are broadening our global presence and creating valuable opportunities for students and educators.”

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BSSA Executive Director Mohammad Rabiul Alam shared his enthusiasm: “I am eager to contribute to the development of activities with Bangladeshi universities and all stakeholders, as this presents a wonderful opportunity for me to work with USSU. Additionally, I am committed to extending our efforts throughout South Asian countries. I am always ready to advance our long-term relationship with USSU.” These strategic MOUs serve more than academic convenience. They bring shared learning, cultural exchange, and leadership development to the forefront of USSU’s mission. Whether it’s through sport science research, student exchange, or educational program development, USSU continues to shape globally-minded sport leaders.

ASAMA High School Sport Art Contest The American Sport Art Museum & Archives (ASAMA) celebrated the next generation of sport during its annual High School Sport Art Competition on May 7, 2025 . This year’s theme, “Determination,” inspired many powerful, moving pieces of student artwork that captured the spirit of perseverance in sport.

For the first time, ASAMA expanded the competition beyond Baldwin County to include students from Mobile County, resulting in an exceptional response. The top 25 students represented eight schools across both counties, reinforcing connections between schools, students, and the arts community across our local region.

This year, the United States Sports University significantly increased its generous support by awarding $1,500 to the overall winner’s school art program. In total, $1,900 in prizes were distributed, celebrating both artistic expression and educational support. The entries were evaluated by a distinguished panel of judges, including Dean Mosher, a celebrated artist from Fairhope, and Jack Scharr, a renowned art collector with deep ties to the sport art community.

The winning pieces from the 2025 competition will be professionally framed and displayed in the ASAMA gallery for the next year. ASAMA welcomes the public to experience these inspiring works in person.

To schedule a tour of the gallery and see the winning art in person, please contact Nancy Raia at Nraia@ussa.edu.

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United States Sports University S U NI V E R

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