Indianapolis, Ind. – NCAA Division II has named its finalists for the 2026 Award of Excellence. Fairmont State University and its Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) were selected as one of the 27 finalists.

"As the current president of SAAC here at Fairmont State, it is an absolute honor to be a finalist for the 2026 NCAA Award of Excellence," said Elizabeth (Lizzie) Maurer. "Every SAAC member had a contribution to help us get to this point and without the dedication of our student-athlete representatives, none of this would be possible. The hard work that was put into our Make-A-Wish fundraising deserves the upmost recognition and this award is the highest honor and solidifies our efforts."

The SAAC at Fairmont State set a goal to raise $10,000 for Make-A-Wish and exceeded it by raising over $20,000, granting two wishes. The student-athletes put on fundraising events that included a Swim-A-Thon, a free youth softball camp and a community volleyball tournament, supported by campus dining partner Elior.

"Our student-athletes led by the SAAC officers showed tremendous initiative once they set their fundraising goals," said Greg Bamberger, Fairmont State University Director of Athletics. "Their mind was set on raising enough funds to support one wish, but with local community and corporate support, they raised enough for two.  We couldn't be prouder of the drive and passion they exhibited to make this a reality. A big shout out to Lizzie Maurer, Chris Hoover and many other leaders in our SAAC.  Job very, very well done."

Currently, SAAC granted one of the wishes back in October as a local young man went on a Royal Caribbean cruise with his family. Additionally, they are currently working fulfilling another wish later in the Spring Semester.

In conjunction, SAAC is still working towards fundraising efforts this year to grant more wishes. Tables and other items are planned throughout the semester at various Fairmont State Athletic Events to continue to aid these efforts.

"With SAAC continuing to fundraise towards Make-A-Wish, this award lets our community members know their donations are leaving an impact," Maurer added. "For the 2025-26 school year, SAAC hopes to raise $30,000 to help grant three more wishes. With light being shed on the positive impact SAAC is having on the community, I hope this helps drive people to get involved with not only our fundraising initiatives, but gets them motivated to give back whenever they can."