For athletes looking to compete in the sport they love while also thriving in a rigorous academic environment, Division III offers the best of both worlds.
“At Susquehanna, Division III athletics means putting academics first — without giving up the thrill of competition,” said Sharief Hashim, athletic director at Susquehanna University. “Our student-athletes thrive in a safe and supportive environment that values excellence in every corner of campus life, from the classroom to the field and beyond.”
The National Collegiate Athletic Association’s DIII Week celebrates the impact student-athletes have on their campuses and the communities around them. Thirty percent of students at Susquehanna University participate in at least one of SU’s 23 NCAA Division III intercollegiate sports teams. The Division III philosophy ensures athletics are an integral part of a well-rounded college experience, allowing student-athletes to make their academic programs a priority.
“Being a student-athlete has helped me establish a disciplined routine, allowing me to excel in both areas,” said Lexi Palumbo ’25, a biomedical sciences and chemistry double major from New Milford, New Jersey, who serves as captain and infielder for the women’s softball team.
Last year, she reached 100 career hits and broke the career doubles record at Susquehanna.
“I have met incredible fellow student-athletes who have become lifelong friends. Beyond athletics, the support I receive from faculty, staff and the student body is truly unmatched,” Palumbo said. “The chemistry department has been a constant source of encouragement throughout my four years.”
Palumbo is also a proud member of Gamma Sigma Epsilon chemistry honor society and the Susquehanna University Chemical Society.
“As a student, the skills I’ve developed most are adaptability and leadership,” Palumbo reflected. “I’ve been honored to serve as captain of the softball team for the past two seasons, which has further strengthened my leadership abilities. I’ve loved working alongside my teammates and coaches, leading by example and being a dependable source of support whenever needed.”
David Birmingham ’27, from Reading, Pennsylvania, is a marketing major and member of the men’s golf team. He also manages the team’s social media presence and assists in the Athletic Communications office by writing historical data related to the team.
“The best benefit of playing DIII golf is being able to play the sport that I love but still getting a great education at a top business school,” Birmingham said. “I have struggled at times to put academics first during stressful weeks, but I can always work with my professors to ensure I do not fall behind.”
During his time as a student-athlete at Susquehanna, Birmingham shot a 79 in his first collegiate match, tying for eighth in the tournament, earning him the title of River Hawk of the Week from the university.
“Golf is a great sport to work on focus, attention and resilience,” Birmingham said. “Being out there on your own — and the only thing that can affect you and your score is you — has helped me with my outlook on my future. It’s taught me patience and resilience when things aren’t going right, and to be ready to finish strong and not give up.”
Susquehanna’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee has organized a series of events to celebrate D3 Week, including the Mr. SU talent show, the Pie a Coach event that welcomes the campus to pie a coach of their choice for a fee to support SAAC’s nonprofit causes and the SUSKY Athletics Awards.
