INDIANAPOLIS - Gannon University, a member of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference, has been named a finalist for the 2025 NCAA Division II Award of Excellence, an accolade recognizing initiatives in the past year that exemplify the Division II philosophy, community engagement, and student-athlete leadership. 22 schools and four conferences have been named finalists, with four other finalists selected as at-large honorees for submitting a strong nomination that was not chosen as the finalist for their conference.
 
Gannon was honored thanks to hosting its PALS Camp program in collaboration with the Erie Police Athletic League, providing a chance for underserved youth to build connections with police officers through sports. The camp hosted more than 300 children and included various sporting events, social interactions, and educational sessions. The camp aimed to reduce crime, promote positive character development, and improve educational outcomes for children.
 
Division II honors its members each year for conducting events that promote student-athletes giving back and serving as leaders within their communities or on their campuses. A committee of athletics administrators determined this year’s finalists, and the national Division II Student-Athlete Advisory Committee selected the top three finalists, who will be announced at the Division II business session on Jan. 17 at the 2025 NCAA Convention in Nashville, Tennessee. Each finalist will receive $750. In addition, the winner will receive $3,000, the first runner-up will receive $1,750 and the second runner-up will receive $1,500. All prize money is intended to be used for future SAAC initiatives or community engagement events.

For a complete list of finalists and the official NCAA release, please visit ncaa.org.