Softball | 1/21/2026 2:46:00 PM
WASHINGTON, D.C. – For Dana Rene and Janiyah Smith, the nation's capital became a classroom far beyond the softball field.
The two softball student-athletes represented Rutgers-Newark while attending the 2026 NCAA Convention, gaining a firsthand look at the conversations and decisions shaping the future of the NCAA and Division III athletics. The experience provided opportunities for leadership development, education, and connection with student-athletes from across the country.
Walking through the convention center, Rene and Smith were surrounded by NCAA administrators, coaches, and fellow student-athletes representing institutions from every region. The convention addressed topics including student-athlete well-being, leadership opportunities, and current issues impacting Division III.
"Attending the 2026 NCAA Convention was an unbelievable experience that I had the privilege to participate in," Rene said. "It gave me the opportunity to connect with people not only from our conference, but from across the country, and engage in meaningful conversations about current issues within Division III. Hearing different perspectives from fellow student-athletes and being able to relate our shared experiences about competing at the Division III level was incredibly impactful."
Smith echoed those sentiments, emphasizing how the experience exceeded her expectations and fostered meaningful connections.
"Going into the convention I was super excited, but it far surpassed my expectations," Smith said. "Our accommodations were awesome and every member of the NJAC was amazing. It was enlightening to hear about everything happening across Division III sports, as well as the perspectives of my fellow student-athletes. Hearing about both different and similar experiences on their campuses created the opportunity to make lasting connections."
Throughout the convention, Rene and Smith participated in educational sessions, roundtable discussions, and networking opportunities that emphasized advocacy, leadership, and student-athlete engagement within college athletics.
For Dana Rene and Janiyah Smith, the NCAA Convention served as more than an educational opportunity, it was a meaningful step toward their growth as leaders, advocates, and representatives of Division III athletics.
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