ATLANTA, Ga. (July 31, 2026) – For graduate Paige Kluba of Piedmont University, this summer wasn't spent competing on the soccer field or tennis court—it was spent helping shape the future of Division III athletics.

Serving as the Collegiate Conference of the South Representative on the Division III National Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), Kluba traveled to Indianapolis, Indiana, where she collaborated with student-athlete leaders from across the country to advocate for Division III student-athletes and discuss legislation impacting the division.

"Being the representative for the CCS on Division III SAAC has been so impactful on not only my college experience but my life," Kluba said. "I have learned so much about college athletics and how the NCAA operates, but most importantly how impactful the student-athlete voice is."

Throughout her term, Kluba has represented the perspectives of CCS student-athletes in national discussions while building relationships with NCAA administrators, institutional leaders, and fellow student-athletes from across the country. She also participated in the NCAA Division III Analysis Working Group and the Division III DEI Subcommittee, experiences she says have broadened both her leadership skills and professional aspirations.

One of the highlights of her experience has been the NCAA's partnership with Special Olympics, which gave SAAC members opportunities to connect with and celebrate Special Olympics athletes during in-person meetings.

While advocating for Division III has been incredibly rewarding, Kluba says the friendships and mentorships she has built along the way have meant the most.

"I am so thankful to have met so many wonderful student-athletes pursuing vastly different careers, but who are all passionate about creating the best environment for student-athletes in Division III," she said. "I couldn't imagine my college experience without these individuals."

Looking back on the summer, Kluba says the biggest lesson she learned was the value of stepping outside of her comfort zone.

Whether reading a position paper during the NCAA Convention Business Session or serving on national committees, she embraced opportunities that initially felt intimidating and discovered new confidence through the support of her peers and mentors.

"Sometimes, taking a chance on something that I didn't feel I had the credentials for allowed me to grow, challenge myself to reach my potential, and contribute more effectively to the group," Kluba said.

Officially embarked on her professional journey, Kluba returns from Indianapolis with valuable leadership experience and an even stronger passion for serving student-athletes both on and off the field.

As Kluba concludes her term as the Collegiate Conference of the South's representative on NCAA Division III SAAC, the conference is now seeking its next student-athlete leader to serve at the national level.

With a variety of committees available, there is a place for every skill set and interest, no matter your major!

Nominations for the CCS Division III SAAC Representative are now open and will close on August 31. Student-athletes interested in representing the conference and helping shape the future of Division III athletics are encouraged to reach out to their institution's Athletics Director, SAAC Advisor, and SAAC President for more information on the nomination process.