A celebratory opportunity, Division III Week is a time when colleges around the country observe the impact of athletics and student-athletes on campus. During the event, every DIII school and conference participates in various types of outreach activities that fall into three categories: academic accomplishment; athletic experience; or leadership/community service/campus involvement.
At Lake Forest, the athletic department, the student-athlete advisory committee (SAAC), and the athletic council (AC) organized and hosted a wide variety of different events throughout the week, both in-person and on social media.
The week kicked-off with a barbecue between the men’s tennis match and the softball games. Coaches and staff grilled up burgers and hot dogs; there were games and activities for student-athletes to enjoy. SAAC also hosted a Fanatics event during the men’s tennis game and provided coffee and donuts to those who attended. Later, there was a homerun derby after the softball doubleheader.
During the week, SAAC/AC hosted a trivia game during lunch hours; prizes were offered to those who correctly answered their questions.
On social media, the athletic department recognized student-athletes’ academic successes and highlighted those seniors who’ve already acquired jobs. It also shared athletes’ favorite memories from their time as Foresters and talked about their favorite professors. The department even unearthed some pictures of coaches who went to Lake Forest and now work at the College. Finally, the made sure to share some mental health resources to round out the week.
In all, it was a fun and festive week that highlighted and celebrated how important and wonderful Forester student-athletes are to the College community.