NCAA CHAMPS/LIFE SKILLS

In 1991, the NCAA Foundation initiated efforts to create a total development program for student-athletes. Through the collaborative efforts of the NCAA Foundation and the Division 1-A Athletic Directors' Association, the CHAMPS/Life Skills Program (Challenging Athletes Minds for Personal Success) was created.

In 1994, after several years of development by the NCAA Foundation, the CHAMPS/Life Skills Program was launched to the NCAA membership. That summer 46 NCAA institutions participated in the first orientation for the administrators around the country. Since then, approximately 50 member institutions have joined the CHAMPS/Life Skills Program each year.

Today, the NCAA Education Outreach staff oversees the development of the program, offering services, support and programs to participating institutions throughout the year. The CHAMPS/Life Skills Program is supported through the promotional and financial efforts of the NCAA Foundation, the NCAA and the Division I-A Athletic Directors' Association.

EDUCATION OUTREACH MISSIONTo provide services and support to the membership, public, and media to develop and enhance the life of the student-athlete through educational programs and resources focusing on gender equity, student-athlete welfare, and life skills.

The CHAMPS/Life Skills Program advisory team was created to help with programming initiatives and planning for the annual Orientation and Continuing Education Conference. The eight-member advisory team is made up of a diverse group of coordinators representing all NCAA divisions from different regions of the country.