When Southern Illinois University Edwardsville coach Amanda Levens took the helm of the women’s basketball program, she envisioned a student-athlete experience that was among the best.
Levens and her team reached many of their goals this past season, including an impressive 347.5 hours of public service spanning 19 different events. Some examples of the team’s public service include volunteering at the Glen Ed Pantry and the Metro East Humane Society as well as helping at the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in St. Louis.
“We talk about developing the whole person, and I think community service is part of that,” said Levens.
The women’s basketball staff sets a number of goals throughout the season whether it is on the court or in the classroom. The team also set a goal of completing 300 hours of community service in its first year. Levens said she expects that number to continue in the future.
“It’s important for our student-athletes to give back. Many people have helped them along the way to get to where they are, and it’s our responsibility to also help where it is needed,” Levens said.
SIUE Director of Athletics Dr. Brad Hewitt applauded the efforts of the women’s basketball program.
“Coach Levens has set the bar for the rest of our program in this regard. Her staff’s hard work will come back tenfold because of the dedication of their student-athletes,” he said.
Levens said she hopes this has started a habit for her student-athletes, providing an opportunity to give back. “Hopefully they’ll continue to do this after they graduate from our program.”
For the near future, Levens added that her team is ready to give even more.
“As long as we’re available, we won’t turn down an opportunity to serve our community,” said Levens.