ST. PAUL, Minn. – Macalester College rising senior Sam Casillas (Downey, Calif./St. Pius X-St. Matthias Academy) of the football team attended the NCAA's Career in Sports Forum, held May 28-31 at the NCAA headquarters in Indianapolis, Ind.

Hosted by the NCAA's leadership development team, the four-day event in Indianapolis brought together over 150 student-athletes. With a Campfires to Careers theme, the forum aimed to help attendees successfully navigate their career journeys after their student-athlete careers.

"The Career in Sports Forum helped me connect my personal strengths to a deeper sense of purpose," said Casillas, a psychology and creative writing double-major who is an offensive lineman for the Scots. "It reminded me that my "why" to lead, uplift, and serve is not just my motivation but a guide toward building a career in sports that aligns with my values and who I strive to be every day. I'm truly thankful for the experience because it challenged me to grow, surrounded me with inspiring leaders, and gave me clarity on the path I want to pursue."

"The Career in Sports Forum provides student-athletes with invaluable opportunities to network with peers and decision-makers at various levels of college athletics. The program educates participants on the intersection of personal strengths and career opportunities, provides tangible experiences to propel their aspirations in sports careers, explores professional and career development strategies and offers insights into careers available in sports," said Ashley Jocelyn, assistant director of leadership development, programs and initiatives.

The forum featured a diverse array of speakers, including Joey Graziano III, executive vice president of strategy and new business ventures for Pacers Sports and Entertainment, and Lacee' Carmon-Johnson, director of basketball advancement for the Toronto Raptors. Jennifer Lynne Williams, chief development officer at USA Basketball, emceed the event.

Each session broadened participants' understanding of the diverse roles available in the sports sector, helping them to envision their futures more clearly. Learners participated in industry-specific breakouts, including coaching, internal relations, external athletics and professional sports.

The Career in Sports Forum focuses on professional development, equipping participants with the tools to navigate their careers effectively. The forum also emphasized the significance of self-awareness and the willingness to adapt and grow, essential traits for success in the sports industry.