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The University of Mississippi Athletics
Leading on and off the Court, Kennedy Todd-Williams Embraces Role on NCAA Division I Student-Athlete Advisory Committee
7/15/2024 | Women's Basketball
OXFORD, Miss. – Prior to the moment Kennedy Todd-Williams stepped on campus in Oxford after announcing her intent to join the Rebels in 2023, the rising fifth-year senior for Ole Miss women's basketball knew she wanted to make an impact off the court and have her voice heard.
After spending three seasons in her home state of North Carolina, Todd-Williams entered the transfer portal and found a new home in head coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin and the Rebels. From her visit, Todd-Williams knew she'd have the opportunity to speak up and have her voice heard in the ever-changing landscape of collegiate athletics.
"Just the opportunities that were brought in front of me, I took advantage of those and really capitalized on learning and making a presence in the rooms," said Todd-Williams. "I really do enjoy SAAC and I think it's a great opportunity for student-athletes to take initiative and use their voices in these rooms."
These rooms began with Todd-Williams serving on the SEC Student-Athlete Leadership Council as a representative for Ole Miss last year, to now working her way on to the Division I Student-Athlete Advisory Committee this past spring.
The Division I Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Consists of a one student-athlete representing each conference sponsored by the NCAA, with the mission to review legislative proposals, issues of interest and actions from the governing to then offer input.
"At first, I really didn't think it was that big, until the standing meeting I went to at the NCAA Headquarters where I had to vote and take initiative and the responsibilities I have. I truly learned that it's a big deal and I'm honored to have the opportunity because I can help others and engage and learn about the things that are going on outside of our campuses that will be brought onto our campuses"
As a transfer student, Todd-Williams has seen first-hand both the challenges and the benefits that entering the portal provide, and she is hoping to make that process better for student-athletes to come.
"I've been able to use my voice and not been afraid to speak out about the things that I am passionate about and just engaging with people. I am very passionate about the process of transfer students and things like women's basketball and anything that is being talked about, I am able to provide my take on things."
Further down the road, Todd-Williams already recognizes lessons that she will be able to take with her when the ball eventually stops bouncing.
"Anyone I come across and meet and interact with, I think that's something that will help me in the long run. I think that's something that I've been learning in general, it's not about what you know, it's about who you know at the end of the day. Taking on that relationship piece and those genuine connections is something that I look forward to in the future."
Building these relationships have also instilled higher levels of self-esteem within Todd-Williams and allowed her self-confidence to soar, through working with some of the top leaders in collegiate athletics.
"My favorite part has been speaking out because sometimes I know it can be hard with adults in the room and you feel like you're just a kid or a player. It's more than that, it's me not being afraid to speak on things and ask questions and be a sponge but also engage. At first it took me some time to warm up, but once I found my footing, it's up from there."
"Once I started answering questions then just providing my input, it made me feel comfortable in a way as we're all trying to figure out sports in general and the legislation that's being passed. It's important for me to speak on behalf of the athletes. It's very powerful and I love that."
Follow the Rebels on X at @OleMissWBB, Facebook at Ole Miss WBB and on Instagram at Ole MissWBB. You can also follow head coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin on X at @YolettMcCuin
After spending three seasons in her home state of North Carolina, Todd-Williams entered the transfer portal and found a new home in head coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin and the Rebels. From her visit, Todd-Williams knew she'd have the opportunity to speak up and have her voice heard in the ever-changing landscape of collegiate athletics.
"Just the opportunities that were brought in front of me, I took advantage of those and really capitalized on learning and making a presence in the rooms," said Todd-Williams. "I really do enjoy SAAC and I think it's a great opportunity for student-athletes to take initiative and use their voices in these rooms."
These rooms began with Todd-Williams serving on the SEC Student-Athlete Leadership Council as a representative for Ole Miss last year, to now working her way on to the Division I Student-Athlete Advisory Committee this past spring.
The Division I Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Consists of a one student-athlete representing each conference sponsored by the NCAA, with the mission to review legislative proposals, issues of interest and actions from the governing to then offer input.
"At first, I really didn't think it was that big, until the standing meeting I went to at the NCAA Headquarters where I had to vote and take initiative and the responsibilities I have. I truly learned that it's a big deal and I'm honored to have the opportunity because I can help others and engage and learn about the things that are going on outside of our campuses that will be brought onto our campuses"
As a transfer student, Todd-Williams has seen first-hand both the challenges and the benefits that entering the portal provide, and she is hoping to make that process better for student-athletes to come.
"I've been able to use my voice and not been afraid to speak out about the things that I am passionate about and just engaging with people. I am very passionate about the process of transfer students and things like women's basketball and anything that is being talked about, I am able to provide my take on things."
Further down the road, Todd-Williams already recognizes lessons that she will be able to take with her when the ball eventually stops bouncing.
"Anyone I come across and meet and interact with, I think that's something that will help me in the long run. I think that's something that I've been learning in general, it's not about what you know, it's about who you know at the end of the day. Taking on that relationship piece and those genuine connections is something that I look forward to in the future."
Building these relationships have also instilled higher levels of self-esteem within Todd-Williams and allowed her self-confidence to soar, through working with some of the top leaders in collegiate athletics.
"My favorite part has been speaking out because sometimes I know it can be hard with adults in the room and you feel like you're just a kid or a player. It's more than that, it's me not being afraid to speak on things and ask questions and be a sponge but also engage. At first it took me some time to warm up, but once I found my footing, it's up from there."
"Once I started answering questions then just providing my input, it made me feel comfortable in a way as we're all trying to figure out sports in general and the legislation that's being passed. It's important for me to speak on behalf of the athletes. It's very powerful and I love that."
Follow the Rebels on X at @OleMissWBB, Facebook at Ole Miss WBB and on Instagram at Ole MissWBB. You can also follow head coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin on X at @YolettMcCuin
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