Mahlia Slaiby Selected for NCAA Division III Student Immersion Program

10/23/2025 1:22:00 PM | By: Bard Sports Information

ANNANDALE-ON-HUDSON, N.Y. – The Bard College Department of Athletics proudly announces that Mahlia Slaiby, a junior on the Raptors' women's soccer team, has been selected to participate in the NCAA Division III Student Immersion Program, a highly competitive and prestigious opportunity for emerging leaders in college athletics.

Held each year during the NCAA Convention, the Student Immersion Program brings together 40 student-athletes from across the nation for an all-expenses-paid experience with Division III governance, leadership, and networking. The 2026 NCAA Convention will take place in Washington, D.C.

Selected participants get a behind-the-scenes look at how Division III operates, connect with key leaders in college athletics, and take part in hands-on professional development, including DiSC training and dedicated mentorship opportunities. Student-athletes leave with new insights, lasting relationships, and a clearer vision for their future in coaching or athletic administration.

"I am honored to be a selected attendee of the NCAA Student Immersion Program!" said Slaiby. "Thank you to Stefanie and Malik for nominating me; this is a valuable opportunity for me to deepen my involvement in athlete advocacy, leadership, and policy-making by engaging with key decision-makers and peers shaping the future of college athletics. I am looking forward to enhancing my ability to support student-athletes on the

Bard campus while also informing my career goals in athletic administration by expanding my knowledge of governance, equity, and athlete welfare!"

"Mahlia is incredibly deserving of this selection for the NCAA Student Immersion Program and we're proud to see her recognized for this opportunity," said Assistant Athletic Director and SAAC Liaison, Malik Walfall. " This is a testament to her outstanding commitment to serving her fellow student-athletes and the overall Bard community. The connections and insights she'll gain from collaborating with top young leaders in collegiate athletics will be a tremendous asset, both for her personal growth and for the future of Bard Athletics through her SAAC leadership."

Slaiby has distinguished herself both athletically and academically during her time at Bard. She has been named to the CSC Academic All-District team, the Liberty League All-Academic team, and the Lebanese Futsal National Team. Additionally, last season, she earned the women's soccer program award at the annual awards banquet.

For more information about the NCAA Division III Student Immersion Program, click here.

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