KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Bethel College's Lisa Janzen Scott has been recognized as the NAIA Wally Schwartz Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) of the Year, the national office announced Monday.
The award, named in honor of longtime NAIA vice president of Legislative Services Wally Schwartz, recognizes a Faculty Athletics Representative for their loyalty, enthusiasm, and honesty in bridging academics and athletics. Scott becomes the second consecutive representative from the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) to receive the honor, following Dr. James Zimmerman of the University of Saint Mary in 2024
As Bethel's FAR, Scott serves as a vital liaison between athletics and academics, ensuring student-athletes are supported while held to the highest academic standards. With over 30 years of teaching experience, she brings unmatched knowledge of academic policies and accreditation standards to her role. She consistently emphasizes the importance of balancing academic progress with athletic commitment, while upholding the NAIA Champions of Character's five core values
Scott expressed her gratitude for the honor, saying, "It is an honor to receive this award. I didn't expect it, so that makes it extra special. My thanks to previous Schwartz Award winners from the KCAC, Joyce Pigge, Ed Loeb, and Jim Zimmerman, for answering lots of questions as I learned the role of FAR. And a big thank you to the Bethel athletics staff and student-athletes who I've had the privilege to work with over the years."
Bethel College Director of Athletics Tim Swartzendruber praised Scott's impact, stating:
"I am extremely happy for Lisa and believe she is deserving of this award. Her proactive approach with students, great communication with students and coaches, and her attention to detail make her extremely appreciated by our entire athletic department. Lisa is a great ambassador for Bethel College and I can't say enough about how much she means to the institution."
Scott's recognition highlights the vital role Faculty Athletics Representatives play in maintaining the integrity of college athletics while advocating for the academic and personal success of student-athletes.
