As part of the MASCAC's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) Annual Meeting on December 6, the group hosted Ivy Watts as a speaker to discuss mental health and racial issues affecting student-athletes.

Every other year, the MASCAC has a speaker present to the conference SAAC on issues that are prevalent to what is currently happening in their lives or in the world. During the other years, each institution presents and votes on a community service project to be done during the spring semester.

"Ivy's presentation was truly eye opening," Kelli McCarthy, Salem State student-athlete said. "Many of our athletes were struggling or have struggled with the same thing, making us feel like we are not alone. Ivy flawlessly intertwined her story with strategic and healthy ways to cope with what she continues to go through. It has inspired me to be committed to creating a more open environment among student athletes pertaining to mental health and breaking the stigma." 

According to the about section on her website, "A former track & field student-athlete who appeared to have it all together, graduating Summa Cum Laude and a top 30 finalist for the NCAA Woman of the Year Award, on the inside struggled daily with anxiety, self-worth and depression. After finally seeking help, Ivy, who is Mental Health First Aid Certified, promotes mental wellness and reduces stigma around mental illness by sharing her story through public speaking and her blog, Beautifully Simply You. Ivy empowers others to speak their truths, know that they are not alone, learn the beauty of self-love and find strength to keep fighting for their tomorrows. Ivy has her undergrad in Psychology from University of New Haven, her Masters in Public Health from Boston University, and also has her certification in Mental Health First Aid."

"Spending my morning with MASCAC was incredible, Watts said. "It is always wonderful when you have a group of student-athletes eager to learn about tools for their own mental health and how to improve the mental health culture on their campus. We spent time discussing topics that ranged from how to help others, tools for self-care, finding identity outside of a sport, and how we can look at our fears from a strength based approach. We also discussed the importance of having difficult conversations around racial issues, and how our voice has power to make a change. Student-athletes felt comfortable vocalizing their fears and strengths in front of their peers, which is a testament to the safe space MASCAC has created for their student-athletes. I do this activity often, but it is rare that student-athletes feel empowered to unmute and share in front of everyone. This morning was a heartwarming experience as I am confident these student-athletes will continue challenging conversations around mental health and race on their campuses and make a difference for themselves and others."

Following the presentation, the MASCAC SAAC held their elections for the MASCAC SAAC President and Vice-President. They also discussed the upcoming legislation on Name, Image and Likeness which will be voted on by the Division III membership during the virtual 2021 NCAA Convention. 

For more information on Ivy Watts and her story, click here.