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 tenth 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.

Lauren Ringwood - Salem College - Sophomore - Women's Basketball and Track & Field
“I chose Division III athletics because I wanted to challenge myself both mentally and physically while continuing to build my mental fortitude. I am very ambitious, and I want to do more than simply participate, I want to grow, contribute to, and help strengthen the programs I am a part of. I chose Salem because of the strong relationship between athletics and academics, which allows me to pursue my education while still competing at a high level. The close relationships I have built with my professors also make it easier to communicate my needs and successfully balance my responsibilities as a student-athlete."

Lauren's Favs:
Color: Emerald Green
Food: Steak
Animal: Jaguar
Movie: Love and Basketball
Class: Policy or Math
Pro Athlete: Serena Williams
Hashtag: #vote