Iowa Wesleyan Early Leaders In SLIAC SAAC Challenge

The early leader in the SLIAC SAAC Challenge for the 2018-19 academic year is Iowa Wesleyan University. This marks the second straight year the Tigers have put up the most challenge points in the conference during the fall season. The SLIAC SAAC Challenge is a conference-wide competition for the SLIAC service award which recognizes schools that make a difference in their community through holding fundraisers, participating in community service, and volunteering with local organizations.

Iowa Wesleyan totaled 24,537.5 points this fall to hold an early lead among SLIAC members. MacMurray College, which has won all four SLIAC Service Awards since its creation five years ago, totaled 18,561 points and sits in second place. Greenville University increased their point total by over 10,000 from a year ago. The Panthers compiled 13,750 points this fall and are in third place; their highest placement since the award was created. 

Principia College racked up 9,335 total points with their soccer programs leading the way combining for more than 5,700 points. Fontbonne University is the top half of the league with 7,296 points with their softball team leading the school's efforts. Webster University follows with 6,590 points. Westminster College totaled 400 points while Blackburn College accumulated 249 points.

The SLIAC/SAAC Service Award was established in 2013 with the goal of recognizing an institution that went above and beyond in giving back to their community. In 2016 the SLIAC expanded the award criteria to include community service projects, collections (food and clothing), and donations. Full criteria and the point system is listed below: