Oswego's focus on learner-centered experiences drives student-athletes to excel in their sports, as well as in the classrooms and within the greater community. Student-athletes regularly team up to help worthy causes through team and individual volunteer work, as the photos below show.

The Student-Athlete Mentors group coordinates such activities as Kids' Day Out, sessions that provide guidance and games for dozens of local schoolchildren. For the past few years, wrestlers and their coaches have participated in the annual Lt. Donald Hill Memorial Run, which raises funds toward a scholarship in the name of the former Oswego policeman killed in the line of duty. Members of the Laker ice hockey team joined a community-wide effort to construct a new playground for Charles E. Riley Elementary School in Oswego. Such efforts represent an increased emphasis on service learning and citizenship among Oswego's student body.

2006 SUNYAC Leaf Raking Project

Approximately 130 Oswego State student-athletes participated in the SUNYAC-wide Leaf Raking Project held on Nov. 5, 2006. The Laker athletes raked 53 yards in the Oswego community. Many of the yards were at homes owned by senior citizens. Local businesses Raby's ACE Hardware, Lowe's, and the Oswego Bagelry and Sandwich Shop supported the efforts of the Oswego State students.

Passionately Pink

Members of the Oswego State women's ice hockey team participated in the annual Passionately Pink Event as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The event was held in support of the Susan B. Komen Foundation. The day included various fund-raising activities across campus.

Guest Speaker

Oswego State men's basketball player Ahmad Mims addressed the St. Paul's Youth Basketball Boys Travel Team banquet. The Laker standout spoke to boys in grades 5 through 8 about work ethic, out-of-season conditioning and striving to be the best they can both on the court and in the classroom.

Skate with the Lakers

The Oswego State hockey team holds an annual Skate with the Lakers event following a home game. Skaters of all ages from the community join team members for autographs and photos. Pictured is Paul Perrier, a 2005 graduate and star forward, signing an autograph for a young fan.

Holiday spirit

Oswego State men's basketball players Mat Burridge (left) and Ahmad Mims read to students at a local elementary school during the holiday season.