Harrogate, Tenn. – LMU Athletics will host the Railsplitter Strong Wellness Educational Program on Thursday evening, February 26th at 7pm, in the Math and Science Building on the LMU campus. The comprehensive program will engage nearly 500 LMU student-athletes in a series of wellness-focused educational sessions designed to support their growth both during and beyond their athletic careers.

The Railsplitter Strong initiative reflects LMU Athletics' commitment to developing the whole student-athlete—not only on the court, on the field, and in the classroom, but in life.

"Our goal is to have a lasting impact on our student-athletes beyond competition," said Don Grigsby, Associate Athletic Director of Sports Performance and Athlete Wellness. "We want to prepare them for life after sport. The lessons they learn through this program are about personal growth, resilience, and making informed decisions that will benefit them long after their playing days are over."

All LMU student-athletes will be divided into cohorts based on class standing and presented with a tailored wellness education curriculum relevant to their stage in the collegiate experience.

Freshmen will participate in "Mental Health and College Sports," presented by LMU Mental Health Counselor Carissa Carver. The session will address the growing importance of mental health in college athletics, highlighting strategies for managing stress, balancing academic and athletic demands, and building healthy coping mechanisms during the transition to collegiate life.

Sophomores will attend "Identity in College Athletics," led by Dr. Scott Barnicle from the University of Tennessee Sport Psychology Department. This presentation will focus on the importance of identity development, helping student-athletes understand who they are beyond their sport and how to navigate life following the conclusion of their athletic careers.

Juniors will be presented with "Social Media in College Athletics," facilitated by LMU Director of Public Relations and Social Media, Nikki Lockhart. The session will explore the impact of social media in today's society and collegiate sports landscape, covering best practices, potential pitfalls, and the do's and don'ts of responsible online engagement.

Seniors and graduate students will participate in a Financial Literacy session presented by Commercial Bank Vice Presidents Michelle Huddleston and Eddie Jones. This presentation will provide practical education on topics such as purchasing a home, managing loans, avoiding financial scams, and building a strong financial foundation for life after college.

LMU Athletics is excited about the continued growth of the Railsplitter Strong program and the positive influence it has on the student-athlete experience.

"We are proud of what we are doing for our student-athletes at LMU," Grigsby added. "This program reinforces our commitment to helping them succeed not just as athletes, but as individuals prepared for lifelong success."