WASHINGTON - Gallaudet University athletics is proud to participate in the annual NCAA Division III Week (April 6-12) in an effort to celebrate the impact athletics and Bison student-athletes have on our campus and the surrounding community. GU is joining 426 Division III institutions and 42 voting conferences in this week's celebration.

To help focus on the many student-athletes that represent Gallaudet athletics we will spotlight several student-athletes each day this week. You will learn more about them as they express their feelings on what it is like to be a Division III student-athlete here at Gallaudet. Interviews were conducted by Gallaudet Athletic Communications Graduate Assistant Alyssa Marino and graphics by Athletic Communications Coordinator Bruce Saperstein and BoxOut Sports.

First Year Marcella Shular (Colorado Springs, Colo.) is a first-year student-athlete in the women's triathlon program. Shular majors in elementary education and is expected to graduate in 2029.

In My Own Words: Marcella Shular (Triathlon)

What is it like to be a student-athlete in college?
MS: I feel very privileged to have the opportunity to be a student-athlete in college. It is a big accomplishment, and I'm proud of how far I've come. Not everyone gets this kind of opportunity after high school, so I don't take it for granted. It has taught me discipline, time management, and how to stay committed to my goals.

What is it like to be a student-athlete at Gallaudet University?
MS: It is an honor to represent a Deaf university. Gallaudet provides amazing support, including access to equipment, athletic training, and dedicated coaches who truly care about our success. The strong support system motivates me to keep improving and pushes me to be successful both in athletics and academics.

What is your favorite road trip this season and why?
MS: My favorite road trip this season was traveling to Pennsylvania. I love being in nature, and triathlon gives me the opportunity to race in beautiful environments like forests and near lakes. The energy from the fans was also really exciting. One of the best feelings is crossing the finish line after pushing myself throughout the race.

Favorite thing about DC?
MS: My favorite thing about DC is that there is always something to do. It never feels boring because there are so many opportunities, and a lot of activities are free. I also love how easy it is to get around using the metro, biking, or walking.

2026 Division III Week Student-Athlete Spotlight: In My Own Words
Friday: Marcella Shular (Triathlon)
Thursday: Natalie Greene (STUNT) | Joe Bryan (Men's Soccer)
Wednesday: Evangeline Diaz (Women's Basketball) | Jala Furdge (Women's Track and Field)
Tuesday: Sofia Giansanti (Women's Flag Football) | Austin Baker (Men's Volleyball)
Monday: Olivia Wascher (Softball) | Mary Figueroa (Women's Swimming)

About Division III Week
Division III Week is a positive opportunity for all individuals associated with Division III to observe and celebrate the impact of athletics and of student-athletes on the campus and surrounding community. During the week, every Division III school and conference office is encouraged to conduct a type of outreach activity that falls into one of three categories: academic accomplishment; athletic experience; or leadership/community service/campus involvement. For more information log onto https://www.ncaa.org/sports/2013/11/15/division-iii-week.aspx.

About Gallaudet
Gallaudet University, federally chartered in 1864, is a bilingual, diverse, multicultural institution of higher education that ensures the intellectual and professional advancement of deaf and hard of hearing individuals through American Sign Language and English. Gallaudet maintains a proud tradition of research and scholarly activity and prepares its graduates for career opportunities in a highly competitive, technological, and rapidly changing world. For more information about Gallaudet University please log onto www.gallaudet.edu and visit the Bison athletics homepage at www.gallaudetbison.com.