The USA South Athletic Conference will once again give institutions the opportunity to spotlight student-athletes each Wednesday as a part of the Conference's #WhyD3Wednesday initiative. In its ninth year, #WhyD3Wednesday allows student-athletes to briefly explain why they chose to attend their Division III institution as well as share some of their favorite things in life. To view this week's submission, please see below and make sure to follow the hashtag #WhyD3Wednesday on the USA South's X (@usa_south) and Instagram (@usa_south) social media platforms throughout the year as League student-athletes share their stories.

Carter Johnson - Southern Virginia University - Senior - Men's Cross Country and Track & Field
"I had always wanted to compete in college, but my primary goal was to earn a degree. I chose Division III because it allowed me to concentrate on academics while still pursuing athletics. Southern Virginia University provided a unique environment where I felt needed and wanted. When I found out that I could run and compete in college at SVU I jumped at the opportunity."

Carter's Favs:
Color: Pink
Food: Shrimp & Grits
Animal: Cat
Class: Anatomy
Pro Athlete: Jakob Ingebrigtsen
Hashtag: #RunningLife