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.

Sophomore Ashley Morales-Juan (Oklahoma City, Okla.) is a second-year student-athlete in the women's cross country and track and field programs. Morales-Juan majors in business administration and is expected to graduate in Spring 2027.

In My Own Words: Ashley Morales-Juan (Women's Cross Country)

What is it like to be a student-athlete in college?
AMJ: Being a student-athlete in college is both fun and challenging, especially for my mental health. Managing academics, athletics, and personal responsibilities requires strong discipline and balance. Despite facing medical challenges, I have proven to myself that I am capable of succeeding by staying organized and committed to my goals.

What is it like to be a student-athlete at Gallaudet University?
AMJ: Being a student-athlete at Gallaudet University is a unique and empowering experience for me. The environment is different and the community is very supportive, and communication with the coach helps me grow both academically and athletically. It has strengthened my confidence, independence, and ability to connect with others on and off the field.

What was the most positive moment you had during your season?
AMJ: One of the most positive moments during my season was building strong teamwork, developing a great connection with my coach, and seeing significant personal improvement—even while managing injuries.

What is a career goal you have during your time as a Bison student-athlete?
AMJ: My goal is to own and operate my own business. As a student-athlete, I have developed valuable skills such as teamwork, strong communication, leadership, and time management, which will help me succeed in my future career.

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.