INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Wilkes University Assistant Sports Information Director Griffin Schmoyer has been selected to participate in the NCAA Athletic Communicators Emerging Elite Program as announced by the association on Wednesday morning.
 
"I am incredibly honored to be named to the 2026 Emerging Elite Program," said Schmoyer. "It is a special opportunity for me to grow as a professional and learn from my colleagues across the country, as well as represent Wilkes University and the Landmark Conference on the national stage. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me and nominated me for this program," he added.
 
Launched in 2024, the Athletic Communicators Emerging Elite Program is a professional development initiative hosted annually in December at the NCAA National Office in Indianapolis. Created in partnership with D3SIDA and College Sports Communicators, the program is designed to elevate Division III's next generation of athletic communication leaders.
 
Participants will plan to engage in interactive sessions focused on leadership development, managing and growing a team, cross-department collaboration, and navigating the evolving landscape of college athletics communications. The experience includes in-person networking, skill-building workshops, and a one-time complimentary registration to the College Sports Communicators Convention the following June.
 
Schmoyer spent one year as a Sports Information Assistant (intern) before being promoted to full-time status in June 2024 where he has served since. Schmoyer also serves as the Transportation Coordinator for all 24 Colonel programs in conjunction with his sports information duties. The Coopersburg, Pa. native is a member of the College Sports Communicators (CSC) and joined the CSC Advocacy Committee this fall. Additionally, he was a member of the Division III Region V Women's Volleyball RAC during the 2025 season.
 
"Griffin has grown so much as a professional since he stepped on campus here four years ago as an intern in the Sports Information office," stated Assistant Athletic Director for External Operations/Sports Information Director Vince Scalzo. Even at such a young stage in his career, he continues to excel in all aspects of the job and this program will only help him sharpen his skills and expand his network," he added.
 
The three-day program will take place in Indianapolis from December 6-8.