ANAHEIM, Calif. — Averett University's Department of Athletics received a national award for community service from the National Association of Division III Athletic Administrators and Jostens. Averett University President Dr. Tiffany Franks and Director of Athletics Meg Stevens were presented with a third-place plaque at the NCAA Convention to recognize "outstanding efforts" of Averett's student-athletes and staff with its annual Special Olympics Fall Fun Day.

"Watching our student-athletes work with the Special Olympics participants during the Fall Fun Day is one of the best days of the year," Stevens said. "Working with the Special Olympians and the community comes so naturally to our student-athletes, which shows we are recruiting and developing our young men and women to serve and lead as catalysts for positive change."

It is the third time Averett has earned an award from NADIIIAA and Jostens. Averett was one of six Award of Merit recipients in the "One-Time Activity or Project" category for the 2016-17 academic year. Averett also was recognized in 2016 in the "Array of Projects" category for the 2014-15 academic year.

The awards program, established in 2001, is sponsored by the NADIIIAA and is intended to recognize the many contributions Division III student-athletes regularly make to their campuses and local communities. Recognition is given for projects in three categories: One Time Projects, An Array of Projects, and Ongoing Projects.