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 Evangeline Diaz (Cedar Park, Texas) is a first-year student-athlete in the women's basketball program and also participates on the women's flag football team. Diaz is declaring a major in social work and is expected to graduate in 2029.

In My Own Words: Evangeline Diaz (Women's Basketball)

What is it like to be a student-athlete in college?
ED: As a student-athlete, of course it is tough. It comes with a lot of commitment and time management, but I love it. Being a student-athlete teaches me a lot about my character as a person, and it applies in the real world—managing everything at once, along with discipline, teamwork, and leadership.

What is it like to be a student-athlete at Gallaudet University?
ED: Being a student-athlete at Gallaudet University is a big honor for me. I am not just representing myself—I am representing my teammates, my coaches, and of course Gallaudet University as a whole. Every time I step onto the court/field, I carry that pride with me.

To me, it's more than just playing a sport. It's about proving something—not only to our opponents, but to anyone who may doubt us. It's about showing that we are capable, determined, and strong. When we compete, we're not just playing the game—we're making a statement that we can play, and we belong here just like anyone else.

Being part of this community pushes me to work harder, stay focused, and give my best effort every single day. It's a responsibility I take seriously, and one I'm proud to carry.

What is the best thing about your teammates?
ED: The best thing about my teammates is mainly the passion we all put in and the support we give each other. Everyone works hard and stays dedicated, and it makes tough tasks feel easier. Knowing we can rely on each other for help or encouragement really makes the team feel strong and connected.

What is your favorite class at GU and why?
ED: My favorite class at GU is introduction to social work. That class is very open and fun. We get to have deep discussions.

2026 Division III Week Student-Athlete Spotlight: In My Own Words
Wednesday: Evangeline Diaz (Women's Basketball)
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.