Mississippi Valley State Athletics Receives NCAA Grant to Boost Student-Athlete Success
Mississippi Valley State University Athletics has been selected as one of 17 NCAA Division I institutions to receive an Accelerating Academic Success Program grant for the 2026-27 academic year, the NCAA announced. The federation awarded more than $1.6 million this cycle to support student-athlete academic achievement.
The funding will help MVSU Athletics strengthen academic support efforts, improve the student-athlete educational experience, and promote progress toward graduation, according to a university spokesperson. The program, established in 2012, provides targeted resources to underfunded Division I schools. Participating programs use the grants to improve Academic Progress Rates and develop initiatives that support student-athletes academically, personally, and professionally.
“We are extremely grateful to the NCAA for awarding Mississippi Valley State University this opportunity,” said Dr. Alecia Shields-Gadson, MVSU director of athletics. “This grant will further support our commitment to academic excellence and the development of our student-athletes. We remain focused on providing resources and support to help them succeed in the classroom, on the field, and after graduation.”
Felicia Martin, NCAA senior vice president of inclusion, education and community engagement, congratulated the recipients. “It is an honor to recognize these schools that are dedicated to creating a holistic and positive student-athlete experience. We look forward to seeing how this grant enhances their academic and career development efforts,” she said.
Mississippi Valley State’s selection underscores the university’s commitment to equipping Delta Devil student-athletes with the tools and resources needed to excel academically while competing at the NCAA Division I level. The NCAA received a record 31 applications for this year’s grants, with applications tripling since 2023, reflecting increasing interest in academic and career development for student-athletes.
The 17 institutions awarded grants this year include Alabama A&M, Austin Peay, Chicago State, Cleveland State, Coppin State, East Texas A&M, Indiana State, Jackson State, Long Beach State, Morgan State, Mississippi Valley State, Northwestern State, Tennessee State, University of the Incarnate Word, USC Upstate, UT Martin, and Winthrop. Several of these, marked with an asterisk, are receiving the grant for the first time.
Since the program’s inception, the NCAA has awarded more than 300 grants. Funds support tutorial and mentoring programs, hiring graduate assistants, and providing technology and learning tools. The NCAA also offers educational resources, guidance, and networking opportunities, including invitations to the annual NCAA Career Forum, to help student-athletes pursue careers in sports and related fields.
For more information, visit the NCAA Accelerating Academic Success Program webpage. Follow MVSU Athletics on Facebook, Twitter/X, and Instagram for updates.
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