Two student-athletes from the University of Massachusetts Boston (UMass Boston) recently took the national stage, representing the Beacons at the prestigious NCAA Convention as participants in the Division III Student Immersion Program.
For Lauren Miner (Millbury, MA), a senior on the softball team and Breon Parker Jr. (Springfield, MA), a senior on the baseball team, the experience was more than a trip — it was a transformative opportunity to explore leadership, governance and the future of college athletics.
What Is the NCAA Division III Student Immersion Program?
Held annually in conjunction with the NCAA Convention, the Division III Student Immersion Program is an all-expenses-paid professional development experience designed for approximately 40 junior and senior student-athletes from across Division III institutions nationwide.
The program offers a behind-the-scenes look at how Division III operates, including:
Designed for student-athletes interested in leadership development and potential careers in coaching or administration, the Immersion Program allows participants to see firsthand how decisions are made at the highest levels of collegiate athletics.
Out of more than 125 applicants nationwide, just 40 were selected — and UMass Boston was proudly represented by two Beacons.
Lauren Miner: "You Deserve to Be in Every Room You Find a Seat In"
Lauren Miner's journey began with a nomination from UMass Boston compliance officer Matt Taiman.
"At the beginning of the Fall 2025 semester, I received an email from the NCAA noting that I had been nominated to apply," Miner said. "Later, I found out Matt nominated me for this prestigious program."
After completing a competitive application process that included reflections on professional goals, leadership philosophy, and navigating challenges in athletics, Miner was selected. The moment she received her acceptance email was unforgettable.
"I ecstatically told my family, my coach and Matt," she said.
At the Convention, Miner immersed herself in leadership panels featuring athletic directors, conference commissioners and head coaches. She participated in DiSC-based self-leadership workshops and was paired with a mentor aligned with her career aspirations.
One of the most unique aspects of the experience was sitting in on conference-level meetings.
"We were able to experience the behind-the-scenes conversations that keep our conferences up and running," she said. "You truly see how much thought goes into the student-athlete experience."
For Miner, networking became more than a buzzword.
"In classes we always hear about networking," she explained. "But being in a room full of professionals and students who share the same goal — you truly see the importance of it. A single hello or conversation could open doors you never knew existed."
Her biggest takeaway?
"You deserve to be in every room that you find a seat in. There is a reason you're there."
She also encourages fellow student-athletes not to shy away from intimidating opportunities.
"Going to the NCAA Convention seemed scary at first, especially traveling to Washington, D.C., but it exceeded every expectation I had. It became a highlight of my college career."
Breon Parker: Leadership Through Connection
Like Miner, Breon Parker was nominated by Matt Taiman and completed a competitive application outlining his desire to pursue a career in athletics administration.
The program, Parker said, is "more or less a leadership conference designed to get college students immersed in the realm of college athletics by providing speakers, mentors and giving students a chance to see what goes on behind closed doors."
"My experience far exceeded expectations," Parker said. "I had never been in a place with so many like-minded people, all there to build and improve the student-athlete experience."
Beyond the formal programming, Parker emphasized the power of connection.
"I got to meet people I now consider friends — people who have connected me with others working in college athletics and who want to help me reach my goals of going to graduate school and working in administration as an Athletic Director."
Among his biggest lessons were how to navigate adversity, lead through personal values, and confidently engage with leaders in powerful positions.
His advice to other student-athletes is "Don't be afraid to speak up and tell someone what you want. No one can help you get an opportunity if they don't know what you're looking for."
A Beacon of Leadership
Miner and Parker's selection reflects not only their individual dedication, but also the culture of leadership and opportunity within UMass Boston Athletics & Recreation.
By participating in the NCAA Division III Student Immersion Program, both student-athletes gained invaluable insight into the governance of college athletics, expanded their professional networks, and strengthened their leadership skills.
More importantly, they returned to campus with a renewed commitment to enhancing the student-athlete experience — embodying what Division III athletics strives to cultivate.
Their message to fellow Beacons is clear:
Take the opportunity. Speak up. Be unapologetically yourself. And when you find yourself in the room — know you belong there.
