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.

Junior Andrew Suarez (Fairview, Texas) is a third-year student-athlete in the men's track and field program. Suarez majors in physical education and recreation (PER) and is expected to graduate in 2027.

In My Own Words: Andrew Suarez (Men's Track and Field)

What is it like to be a student-athlete in college?
AS: Being a student-athlete as a thrower means I am deeply committed to both my team and my personal growth. I support my teammates, but I also put in extra work on my own time. I practice every day to refine my skills, hit new personal records (PRs), and focus on training that helps my body recover. Most importantly, I prioritize my schoolwork to ensure I maintain good grades.

What is it like to be a student-athlete at Gallaudet University?
AS: Being a student-athlete at Gallaudet University provides me with a great deal of accessibility and freedom. It allows me to focus on my specific needs as a thrower. While I take pride in my confidence, there are times when I struggle with the fear of not succeeding; however, I believe it is important to never give up.

If you could work in the Athletics Department, what job would you want?
AS: I am very interested in becoming a Physical Therapist (PT) or a Physical Education (PE) teacher because I enjoy working with both children and adults. I have a strong foundation in PT, particularly in observing body mechanics and understanding how to perform adjustments. I want to inspire students to find their passion, just as I have found mine through my dedication to sports.
 
What is your favorite class at GU and why?
AS: My favorite classes are within the PER department because they allow me to be creative with activities. I love participating in games and gaining hands-on experience that I can use in my future career as a PE teacher. It is always rewarding to collaborate and play alongside other students.

2026 Division III Week Student-Athlete Spotlight: In My Own Words
Sunday: Ashley Morales-Juan (Women's Cross Country) | Andrew Suarez (Men's Track and Field) | Taran Johnson (Football)
Saturday: Kayla Debrow (Women's Volleyball) | Jordan Antonio (Men's Swimming)
Friday: Marcella Shular (Triathlon) | Jayden Orsi-Pedersen (Men's Basketball)
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.