Ava Venturelli from softball and Cecilia Kern from rowing have been selected as representatives for the University of Louisville on the Atlantic Coast Conference鈥檚 Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) for the 2026-27 academic year. Both seniors will voice the interests of the ACC's over 12,200 student-athletes, influencing legislation and initiatives that affect their collegiate experience. The SAAC serves to enhance communication between student-athletes and the conference leadership, promoting a culture of sportsmanship and community engagement across all member institutions. Representatives are nominated from each of the ACC's 18 schools, and leadership roles within SAAC are filled through student votes.

By the Numbers
  • Over 12,200 student-athletes represented across 18 ACC institutions.
  • Cecilia Kern and Ava Venturelli are both entering their senior year at the University of Louisville.
State of Play
  • Venturelli and Kern will be active in advocating for student-athlete perspectives on governance and community initiatives.
  • The SAAC plays a vital role in promoting sportsmanship and positive culture in ACC athletics.
  • Executive Board members were elected to guide the committee's activities for the upcoming year.
What's Next

The involvement of Venturelli and Kern is expected to enhance the student-athlete voice in discussions related to policy and initiatives across the ACC. As they take on this leadership role, they may influence important changes that benefit their peers within the conference.

Bottom Line

Ava Venturelli and Cecilia Kern's nomination to the ACC SAAC underscores the importance of student-athlete representation in shaping the collegiate sports landscape, fostering a stronger connection between athletes and decision-makers in the conference.