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.

Sophomore Olivia Wascher (Noblesville, Ind.) is a second-year student-athlete in the GU softball program. Wascher majors in business administration with a concentration in event and hospitality management, and is expected to graduate in Spring 2028.

In My Own Words: Olivia Wascher (Softball)

What is it like to be a student-athlete in college?
OW: Student-athletes in college have a high level of commitment. We play for the university while continuing to pursue our education.

What is it like to be a student-athlete at Gallaudet University?
OW: Being a student-athlete at Gallaudet University is a unique experience since it is the only deaf university in the world. This means we can play sports and learn in a fully accessible environment.

What is your favorite GU sport(s) you like to watch and support that is not your sport?
OW: My favorite sports to watch are Gallaudet men's volleyball and football.

What is the best thing about your teammates?
OW: The best thing about my teammates is that we are able to play together and create bonds and new friendships through sports that bring us together.

2026 Division III Week Student-Athlete Spotlight: In My Words
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.