Chambana Sun

Illinois senior Abby Lynch has been selected as the Big Ten Conference representative on the NCAA's Division-I National Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). This role is a significant step for Lynch, who is known for her involvement in Illini Soccer and Track and Field.

"It is a great honor to serve on the Division 1 National SAAC as the Big Ten representative," said Lynch. "The Big Ten is a group of incredible student-athletes, and I want to ensure that their voices are heard."

Lynch's journey with SAAC began in her second semester as a freshman. She later became an at-large member of Illinois SAAC as a sophomore. Her dedication saw her rise through the ranks to become vice president during her junior year and eventually president of Illini's SAAC and chair of the Big Ten's Student-Athlete Issues Commission as a senior.

"I knew some of my teammates were involved with it, and it sounded like a really exciting opportunity to get involved within the athletic department," Lynch stated.

Her experiences have shaped both her personal and professional development. "I am so grateful for the opportunities that I have been given because of my involvement within SAAC," she said. Lynch emphasizes the importance of participation in such committees for student-athletes.

"Raising your hand and saying 'yes' is a great way to put yourself out there," she added. "Your voice is so important, and your experience matters."

Lynch values forming relationships with other student-athletes at Illinois, finding support among peers who understand each other's daily challenges. She encourages others to engage with local campus initiatives like SAAC.

"My favorite part about serving on SAAC has been forming relationships with other student-athletes at Illinois," she shared.