Auburn’s Groth and Simmons Honored with SEC Brad Davis Community Service Award

Auburn University proudly announces that gymnast Sophia Groth and swimmer Andrew Simmons have been selected as the recipients of the Southeastern Conference’s (SEC) 2024 Brad Davis Community Service Award. This prestigious honor recognizes student-athletes who exemplify exceptional community service, leadership, and academic excellence. Groth and Simmons are among 28 honorees—14 men and 14 women—from SEC institutions to receive this accolade.

Sophia Groth: Championing Community Engagement

Sophia Groth, a junior gymnast from West Des Moines, Iowa, has been an active and influential presence in the Auburn community. Since joining the Auburn gymnastics team, Groth has dedicated herself to various service initiatives, demonstrating a profound commitment to making a positive impact.

Educational Outreach

Groth has volunteered her time to read at multiple elementary schools and preschools in the Auburn area, fostering a love for reading among young students. Additionally, she has participated in the Leader Luncheon at Pick Elementary, encouraging leadership qualities in children while sharing a meal with them.

Promoting Active Lifestyles

As part of her outreach, Groth and her teammates have conducted gymnastics demonstrations at local schools, promoting the importance of physical activity and healthy living. Her involvement in these activities underscores her dedication to inspiring the next generation to lead active and healthy lives.

Community Service Initiatives

Beyond educational and athletic outreach, Groth has been instrumental in organizing and participating in community service projects. She has led food and toy drives to assist individuals facing food insecurity and to provide gifts to children in need during the holiday season. Her leadership in these initiatives has brought the Auburn community together to support those in need.

Advocacy and Mentorship

Groth has also contributed to discussions on gender equity by serving on Title IX panels, advocating for equal opportunities in sports. Her involvement in such panels reflects her commitment to fostering inclusivity and equality within the athletic community.

Partnerships with Local Organizations

Her service extends to collaborations with various local organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, the Boys & Girls Club, the Hudson Family Foundation, Baby Steps, and Christian Care Ministries. Through these partnerships, Groth has contributed to initiatives aimed at improving the lives of individuals and families in the Auburn area.

Andrew Simmons: A Legacy of Service and Leadership

Andrew Simmons, a senior swimmer from Auburn, Alabama, has demonstrated exemplary leadership both in the pool and in the community. His dedication to service has made a lasting impact on the Auburn community and beyond.

Leadership in Student-Athlete Organizations

Simmons has served as the president of the Auburn Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), where he has led initiatives aimed at enhancing the student-athlete experience and promoting community engagement. Under his leadership, SAAC has organized various events and programs that encourage student-athletes to give back to the community.

Community Service Projects

In his role with SAAC, Simmons has been involved in coordinating community service projects such as food drives, charity events, and outreach programs. These initiatives have provided support to local organizations and individuals in need, reflecting Simmons’ commitment to service.

Mentorship and Advocacy

Simmons has also served as a mentor to younger student-athletes, offering guidance and support to help them navigate their academic and athletic careers. Additionally, he has been an advocate for mental health awareness, working to reduce stigma and promote resources for student-athletes facing mental health challenges.

Academic Excellence

Balancing his athletic commitments with academic responsibilities, Simmons has maintained a strong academic record throughout his college career. His ability to excel in both areas exemplifies the values of discipline and time management.

The Brad Davis Community Service Award: A Tribute to Service

The Brad Davis SEC Community Service Award is named in honor of Brad Davis, a former SEC associate commissioner who passed away in 2006. Davis was known for his dedication to community service and his efforts to enhance the student-athlete experience across the conference. The award recognizes student-athletes who embody these same values through their commitment to service, leadership, and academic excellence.

The recipients of the Brad Davis Community Service Award receive a $5,000 postgraduate scholarship, which can be used to further their education or professional development. This scholarship serves as a testament to their hard work and dedication to making a positive impact in their communities.

Auburn’s Commitment to Community Engagement

The selection of Groth and Simmons for this prestigious award highlights Auburn University’s commitment to fostering student-athletes who excel not only in their respective sports but also in their contributions to the community. The university continues to support and encourage its student-athletes in their endeavors to make meaningful differences in the lives of others.

Through programs like the Brad Davis SEC Community Service Award, Auburn showcases the importance of community engagement and the positive influence that student-athletes can have beyond the playing field.

Looking Ahead

As Groth and Simmons prepare to graduate, their legacy of service and leadership will undoubtedly inspire future generations of Auburn student-athletes. Their dedication to community service sets a high standard for those who follow in their footsteps, emphasizing the importance of giving back and making a positive impact.

Auburn University remains proud of their achievements and looks forward to seeing the continued contributions they will make in their respective communities and professions.

the recognition of Sophia Groth and Andrew Simmons with the 2024 Brad Davis SEC Community Service Award underscores the significant role that student-athletes play in enhancing their communities. Their unwavering commitment to service, leadership, and academic excellence serves as an exemplary model for others to follow.