MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Auburn University at Montgomery has been named one of 26 schools nationwide selected as finalists for the 2026 NCAA Division II Award of Excellence, the NCAA announced. The award honors initiatives that exemplify the Division II philosophy of community engagement and student-athlete leadership.

AUM was recognized for its partnership with TOPSoccer and Dream Court, an initiative that supports adaptive sports opportunities for youth with physical and intellectual disabilities. More than 45 AUM student-athletes volunteered over 500 hours, assisting with soccer and tennis activities that promoted inclusion, confidence, and meaningful engagement within the Montgomery community.



Finalists for the Award of Excellence were selected by a committee of athletics administrators and the Division II Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). SAAC members will also select the top three honorees, which will be announced during the Division II business session later this month at the 2026 NCAA Convention in Washington, D.C.

Each finalist will receive $750. The overall winner will receive $3,000, the runner up will be awarded $1,750, and the third-place recipient will earn $1,500. All prize money is designated to further support future SAAC programming or community engagement initiatives



For more information on the 2026 NCAA Division II Award of Excellence finalists and their initiatives, visit NCAA.org.

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