CARMEL, Ind. – Three student-athletes from the Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference (HCAC) recently participated in the NCAA Career in Sports Forum, held in Indianapolis this past week.

Representing the HCAC were Josiah Marshall from Anderson University, Alpha Diop from Berea College, and Braeden Lewis from Earlham College. The annual NCAA Career in Sports Forum provides selected student-athletes with an opportunity to explore and enhance their understanding of careers in sports, while developing leadership skills and expanding professional networks.

Throughout the multi-day program, participants engaged in interactive educational sessions focused on leadership development, professional growth, networking, and career pathways within the sports industry. Student-athletes also had opportunities to connect with NCAA staff members, athletics administrators, and peers from institutions across the country.

“The relationships, lessons, and experiences I gained at the NCAA Career in Sports Forum will stay with me for a long time,” said Marshall. “Being recognized with the Trailblazer Award was a special honor, but I am even more excited to share what I learned and help other Anderson and HCAC student-athletes discover opportunities like CSF that prepare them for life beyond athletics.”

Marshall was recognized during the program with the Inaugural Trailblazer Award, while Diop earned Camper of the Week honors, recognizing their engagement and contributions throughout the forum experience.

The NCAA Career in Sports Forum is designed to encourage student-athletes to consider and pursue careers in sports while helping prepare the next generation of leaders within collegiate athletics.

For more information on the HCAC, visit the websites of any of the participating schools, or go to the HCAC's home on the internet at www.heartlandconf.org. Be sure to stay up to date on all of your Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference news by following @HCACDIII on Twitter and by liking the "HCAC DIII" Facebook page.