CANTON, Ga. – The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has announced that Kimberly Lila of Berry College has been selected to serve as the NCAA Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) Representative for the Southern Athletic Association (SAA). This prestigious appointment reflects the NCAA’s continued commitment to empowering student-athletes by ensuring their voices are represented in the organization’s decision-making processes.
The NCAA SAAC plays a vital role in advising on policies and programs that affect the student-athlete experience across all divisions. Composed of student-athletes from colleges and universities nationwide, the committee addresses current issues, identifies opportunities for improvement, and promotes a culture that prioritizes both academic and athletic excellence. Its structure is designed to ensure informed, first-hand input from those directly engaged in collegiate athletics.
Lila’s selection is a significant milestone for the Southern Athletic Association. Her demonstrated leadership, academic dedication, and involvement in athletics made her an outstanding candidate. In her new role, Lila will work alongside fellow SAAC members, athletic administrators, and NCAA leadership to champion initiatives that enhance the overall experience of student-athletes.
“We are thrilled that Kimberly Lila has been selected to represent the student-athletes of the Southern Athletic Association on the NCAA Division III National SAAC. Kimberly has been an engaged and thoughtful leader within both the Berry College and SAA SAAC structures, and we are confident she will be a strong voice for our league on the national stage. Her participation in the NCAA Student Immersion Program, the Career in Sports Forum, and several SAA leadership development opportunities has prepared her well for this role. We are proud to support her in this next chapter and look forward to watching her thrive as she advocates for student-athletes across the country.”
— Stacey LaDew, Commissioner, Southern Athletic Association
“I’m incredibly honored to represent the SAA at the national level through NCAA SAAC. I’m grateful to Commissioner Stacey LaDew and my Athletic Director, Dr. Angel Mason, for their continued support and belief in me. As the NCAA navigates pivotal changes, I’m excited to collaborate with fellow SAAC representatives and advocate for student-athletes across Division III. Representing our conference means a great deal to me, and I'm committed to making the SAA proud.”
— Kimberly Lila, NCAA SAAC Representative, Southern Athletic Association
Lila’s appointment underscores the NCAA’s commitment to inclusive leadership and the continual improvement of collegiate athletics. By involving student-athletes directly in shaping policy and programming, the NCAA continues to foster an environment where student-athletes can thrive on and off the field.
For more information about the NCAA Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and related initiatives, please visit the NCAA’s official website.
For more information on all things SAA, visit the websites of any of the participating schools, or go to the SAA's home on the internet at www.saa-sports.com. Be sure to stay up to date on all of your Southern Athletic Association news by following @SAA_Sports on Twitter (X) and @SAA_Sports on Instagram.