|
Not only is Buckenmeyer extremely busy on
the cross country course, but he is equally busy in and out of the
classroom. He is a journalism and mass communication major who holds the
distinguished role of Student Athletic Advisory Committee (SAAC) President
at Lock Haven. He is also the co-chair for the statewide organization
representing the western division.
SAAC is an organization that acts as a
bridge between student-athletes and the athletic administration. If the
athletes have problems, they can take them to the administration through
SAAC. The main goal of the organization according to Buckenmeyer, is to keep
a connection between the athletes and the administration on campus. SAAC
works to keep both parties happy.
“The happier we are, the better we will
perform, which helps us better represent the University,” said Buckenmeyer.
As Lock Haven SAAC president,
Buckenmeyer is in charge of running the meetings, which includes setting an
agenda, and meeting with Lock Haven SAAC advisor, Danielle Barney,
assistant athletic director at the University. When an issue of concern is
brought up at a meeting, Buckenmeyer is responsible for setting up a
discussion with the director of athletics, Sharon Taylor to try and
resolve the problems.
His state duties include working with
the SAAC to make sure the student athletes’ needs are met. The state SAAC
meets twice a year in the fall and spring. Buckenmeyer helps to set the
agenda and runs those meetings as well.
Buckenmeyer’s commitment to his
University is ongoing. He also works with the Champs Life Skills committee,
writes for the school newspaper and is on the State Advisory Council. As a
member of the State Advisory Council he looks at controversial issues sent
from athletic directors and coaches and helps to make decisions on them.
“He juggles a lot and takes on quite a
bit of responsibility,” said Aaron Russell, head cross country coach.
“I give him plenty of credit.”
It's all about
prioritizing, according to Buckenmeyer, who says he still enjoys having fun
hanging out with his friends and enjoying the college experience.
“When it comes to practice, my focus is
just running for those two hours, then it goes back to school work and
everything else,” said Buckenmeyer. “It’s difficult, but important to me.”
Russell knows first-hand about his
dedication.
“For someone in his position, it would
be real easy for them to not give 100 percent on this or that, but he never
compromises,” he said. “He never tries to take an easy road.”
###LHU###
|
