The program strengthens the role of athletics within the College's Lasallian Catholic mission and student development framework.

MORAGA, CA / ACCESS Newswire / April 7, 2026 / Saint Mary's College of California continues to expand the role of athletics within its Catholic educational mission through the leadership of Mary Volmer, SMC's Mission Fellow for Athletics and leader of the College Sport for Humanity Higher Education Initiative.

The initiative examines how athletics can serve as a meaningful extension of higher education, prioritizing human development, ethical leadership, community formation, and the College's Lasallian Catholic values. Under Volmer's leadership, the program positions sport as an integral component of student formation rather than a separate institutional function.

Grounded in the principle that sport is sacred, the initiative explores how athletic participation contributes to intellectual growth, character development, and social responsibility. The work aligns closely with Saint Mary's broader mission to educate the whole person and to foster leadership grounded in service and integrity.

"Mary Volmer's work strengthens the connection between athletics and our Catholic identity, supporting the idea that sport is a meaningful site of education, formation, and community," said College spokesperson Mike Janes.

The College Sport for Humanity initiative complements Saint Mary's recent investments in athletic and aquatics programming, reinforcing the College's commitment to integrating physical development, wellness, and mission-centered education.

As Saint Mary's continues to expand athletic opportunities and related academic initiatives, the program provides an institutional framework for understanding sport as part of the College's educational and spiritual mission.

Founded in 1863, Saint Mary's College of California is a nationally recognized Catholic, Lasallian institution located in Moraga, California. Known for its rigorous academics, personalized education, and strong sense of community, Saint Mary's prepares students to lead with integrity, purpose, and compassion. The College offers undergraduate and graduate programs grounded in the liberal arts and supported by Division I athletics. Learn more at www.stmarys-ca.edu.

###

For more news and information about Saint Mary's College of California, please visit https://www.stmarys-ca.edu/news.

XXX

Media Contact: Mike Janes
Phone: (510) 571-7497‬
Email: mej10@stmarys-ca.edu

SOURCE: Saint Mary's College of California