Throughout the fall, the Student-Athlete Advisory Committees (SAAC) of the East Coast Conference's nine member institutions performed outstanding work on their campuses and within their communities. As we look ahead to the Spring '26 semester, the ECC's nine campus SAAC presidents have reflected on their most memorable and impactful events from the Fall '25 semester.
Daemen University
"Daemen Athletics sponsored a 'Trunk or Treat' for the neighborhood behind our home field at Royal Park, where there aren't sidewalks or many streetlights in the neighborhood," said Daemen SAAC president and ECC SAAC Vice Chair
Bradyn Winters, a junior member of the Wildcats' men's volleyball program. "Each of our teams had at least one car with a different theme, where we gave out candy and hot cider."
University of the District of Columbia
"This year, UDC SAAC organized International Day during one of our men’s soccer games, a celebration of the incredible diversity within our campus community," said District of Columbia SAAC president
Emmanuela Katou Kouami, a senior member of the Firebirds' cross country and track and field programs. "Our goal was to highlight the idea that we are truly 'One Firebird Nation.' Students, athletes, and fans were invited to mark their birthplace on a world map, take photos with their national flags, and leave with keychains as keepsakes. The event was a vibrant success, showcasing the unity and pride that defines UDC while celebrating the many cultures that make up our Firebird family."
D'Youville University
"This fall, the Saints joined up with the Wilson Park Conservancy playground build to help provide a better play experience for the local neighborhood," said DYU SAAC president
Sophia Vane, a junior member of the Saints' women's track and field program. "The Saints helped assemble equipment, paint, move mulch and help give back to our West Side community. Blood, sweat, tears... and a little more sweat was poured into the playground."
Mercy University
"Every year, Mercy Athletics honors those who served and sacrificed their lives during September 11, 2001," said Mercy SAAC president and ECC National SAAC rep
Rita-Marie Masi, a senior member of the Mavericks' women's soccer and women's lacrosse programs. "We walk from our athletic facility, placing American flags along the path, down to the field and hold a moment of silence in respect. We also hear a few words from our athletic director, Matt Kilcullen, Jr., and other guest speakers who share their own experiences through one of our toughest moments of history."
Molloy University
"This fall, Molloy has taken part in multiple community service projects," said Molloy SAAC president and ECC Chair
Kathleen Healy, a senior member of the Lions' women's cross country and track and field programs. "During October, we attended Breast Cancer Awareness walks at Jones Beach. In November, we created Forget-Me-Not flowers for the Disabled Veterans Association to help the organization fundraise money. Most recently in December, we held our annual Night Out on the Lion event where we welcomed local children from the community to Molloy for the evening while their parents had a night out. By participating in these events, Molloy athletes have been able to give back to the community and support those around us!"
Queens College
"The QC Knights Athletics and Student Association hosted our annual Bonfire Night, complete with s’mores and a welcoming atmosphere for students and faculty," said Queens SAAC president
Ava Angiuli, a junior member of the Knights' women's soccer program. "This year, we also incorporated a Breast Cancer Awareness fundraiser benefiting the National Breast Cancer Foundation, held alongside our men's soccer game. It was a memorable event that brought our campus community together for a meaningful and enjoyable night."
Roberts Wesleyan University
"The men's volleyball team volunteered at the Roberts Wesleyan women's basketball game to support the Pirate Toy Fund by collecting toys and donations," as stated by Roberts Wesleyan SAAC Social Media/Outreach Chair Moises Jimenez of men's volleyball and submitted by Roberts Wesleyan SAAC co-president
Jessica Montemorano, a junior member of the Redhawks' cross country and track and field programs. "This initiative helps bring joy to children across our community, especially those whose families may be facing financial challenges. We were grateful for the chance to give back and be part of something that makes a real difference during the holiday season and our community."
College of Staten Island
"In September, we attended the Brittney McCarthy Walk for Brain Aneurysms," said CSI SAAC president Angelina Guerriero, a graduate student member of the Dolphins' women's cross country and track and field programs. "This walk brings together the CSI and Staten Island community to honor the life and legacy of Brittney McCarthy, a CSI Verrazano honors student while raising awareness for brain aneurysm education and research. The event is supported by students, faculty, family, and friends, with SAAC and CSI Athletics helping make the walk possible through our involvement and service."
St. Thomas Aquinas College
"This fall, our SAAC hosted a campus food drive during home basketball games to support local families in need," said STAC SAAC president Vinny Rosario, a sophomore member of the Spartans' men's lacrosse program. "Student-athletes, fans, and the STAC athletics community came together to donate non-perishable items and show the impact that our program can have beyond competition. The event highlighted STAC’s SAAC commitment to service, leadership, and giving back."
