FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Nova Southeastern University student-athletes from the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) partnered with the Jason Taylor Foundation on Monday, September 7, 2026, marking four consecutive years of NSU participation in the 21st annual "Cool Gear for the School Year" community service event. Held at the Old Navy at Tower Shops in Davie, Florida, the initiative paired local student-athletes with underserved youth for an exclusive back-to-school shopping spree.

During the event, 60 children from Miami-Dade and Broward counties were each provided a $300 shopping budget to select new school clothes and essential gear. NSU student-athletes served as celebrity shoppers, guiding the children through the store to assist with outfit selection and help them prepare for a successful academic year.

"Our student-athletes consistently demonstrate the values of leadership, service, and compassion both on and off the field," said Dr. Deanna Rivero, Assistant Athletic Director for Academics and SAAC Advisor. "Participating in the Jason Taylor Foundation's 'Cool Gear for the School Year' event for four consecutive years has been a deeply meaningful opportunity for our SAAC members. Watching our Sharks build connections with these students and help them start the school year with pride reflects the positive impact we strive to make across South Florida."

Ten NSU student-athletes across six sports programs represented the Sharks at the event:

First-Time Participants
• Abbey Moore – Softball
• Abbie Roth – Volleyball
• Arianna Bittner – Cross Country / Track & Field
• Danika Senekal – Swimming
• Emma Kelly – Women's Lacrosse
• Lauren Vitantonio – Women's Lacrosse

Returning Participants
• Bella Ascone – SAAC Vice President (Cross Country / Track & Field)
• Caiden Largent – SAAC Chief of Staff (Volleyball)
• Julianna Becerra – SAAC Secretary (Rowing)
• Keel Brossard – Cross Country / Track & Field

The Jason Taylor Foundation's "Cool Gear for the School Year" program continues its mission of empowering South Florida youth by improving self-esteem and providing critical resources for students in need. Through ongoing partnerships with local charitable initiatives, NSU Athletics and SAAC remain committed to creating lasting value in the surrounding community