Support Services for Student-Athletes

Fairfield University is committed to a strong support program - both academic and personal for its student-athletes. The Department of Athletics has fullt-time and part-time staff to assist student-athletes and provide resources and guidance when necessary or when sought.

Academic Support
The Academic Center for student-athletes is located in the Thomas J. Walsh Athletic Center, which includes individual and group study areas, a computer lab, and offices for staff. The center is staffed by the Coordinator of Programs for Student-Athletes, two graduate assistants, and two coaches with part-time administrative responsibilities who collectively provide services that encompass:

• Overseeing the academic success of all varsity team members by cultivating an interrelationship between student-athletes, coaches, faculty, and other University personnel.
• Assisting student-athletes in meeting requirements of satisfactory academic progress and athletic eligibility consistent with Fairfield University policies and NCAA rules and regulations.
• Providing an academic support system which integrates the use of study halls, tutorials, basic study skills workshops and personal advising. The support services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each student-athlete.
• Skills To Achieve Growth and Success (S.T.A.G.S.). The purpose of this program is to create opportunities for personal and professional development through campus and community outreach and career exploration. A pervasive component of the S.T.A.G.S. program will entail the communication of organizational and time-management techniques. In addition, the program intends on improving the student-athlete's skills in the following areas: note taking and outlining, study techniques, critical thinking, reading comprehension, computers, exam taking, research, and career development.

In addition, student-athletes can take advantage of the Academic Advantage Program (AAP) sponsored by the Center for Multicultural Relations and the Peer Tutorial and Academic Skills Development programs sponsored by the Office of Student Academic Support Services.

Contact Information:

Mary Ann Palazzi, M.A.
Coordinator of Programs for Student-Athletes
(203) 254-4000, ext. 2011

Student Life Support
Student-athletes at Fairfield University are not limited solely to their sport of participation. Rather, student-athletes are integrated into the full fabric of life at the University. Student-athletes often particpate in student clubs or organizations, serve as officers in the student association or other representative associations, perform community service through Campus Ministry and other service-oriented programs, and serve as Resident Assistants (RAs).

The Office of the Dean of Students, Office of Student Life & University Activities, Office of Campus Ministry, and Office of Residence Life & Housing are available to assist student-athletes as they move through their Fairfield experience.