NASHVILLE - Skidmore College women's lacrosse player Brooke LaVallee recently represented the Liberty League at the 2025 NCAA Convention in Nashville, Tennessee, as a member of the Division III National Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). This role allowed LaVallee to advocate for Liberty League student-athletes and contribute to important discussions on NCAA policies and legislative proposals.
 
During the convention, SAAC met with NCAA leadership, including NCAA President Charlie Baker, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Deena Casiero, Board of Governors Chair Dr. Linda Livingstone, and Government Relations Managing Director Dawn Buth. These meetings offered insights into NCAA governance and addressed challenges and opportunities in college athletics.
 
LaVallee also participated in conversations with Liberty League athletic administrators, where she shared updates and National SAAC's positioning on the 2025 legislative proposals, working together to identify ways to enhance the student-athlete experience across the conference.
 
"Attending the NCAA Convention was an incredible opportunity to represent Skidmore and the Liberty League and ensure the voices of student-athletes are heard," LaVallee said. "I had the privilege of meeting with NCAA leaders and contributing to discussions that will shape the future of collegiate athletics. This experience has strengthened my commitment to advocating for meaningful change, and I look forward to sharing what I've learned with our conference and campus."
 
As part of Division III National SAAC, LaVallee also observed the Division III Business Session, where several key legislative proposals were voted on, including an initiative to ensure equal student voice representation across all Division III conferences. The convention also celebrated the addition of the NCAA Women's Wrestling Championship, marking a significant step forward for women's sports.
 
In addition to attending sessions, LaVallee participated in collaborative activities with divisional SAAC members and participated in a Special Olympics Tennessee event, highlighting the NCAA's commitment to community engagement.
 
LaVallee's leadership and dedication at the NCAA Convention reflect Skidmore's commitment to empowering student-athletes to make a difference—on the field, in their communities, and across the landscape of collegiate athletics.