SE Valley Times

Arizona State University athletes are achieving high academic standards alongside their sports commitments. In the fall 2024 semester, 118 Sun Devil athletes earned a 4.0 GPA, marking the eighth consecutive time that at least 100 athletes have reached this milestone. ASU also leads the Big 12 Conference with 152 Academic All-Americans as of July 2024.

Andrea Lore, senior associate athletic director of student-athlete development and well-being, attributes this success to several programs designed to support student-athletes. These include the Academic Success Network, digital immersion course options, and the Tip of the Fork program. Lore emphasized that "these students are self-sufficient and meet the high expectations set by their teams and coaches."

Four standout students were highlighted for their academic achievements:

Tiago Behar, a senior in men's swimming majoring in computer science, was awarded the NCAA Elite 90 Award for having the highest cumulative GPA among those reaching NCAA finals competitions. Behar plans to pursue a career in cybersecurity after graduation.

Alex Theodorou, a senior gymnast studying biochemistry, manages her rigorous schedule by taking tests during road meets. She aims to become a doctor while maintaining her perfect GPA.

Helen Park, a senior lacrosse player majoring in biological sciences on a pre-med track, learned to focus entirely on her current tasks to balance academics and athletics effectively.

Melquan Stovall, a graduate student in football majoring in organizational leadership and global security, values education highly due to influences from his family. He is completing two master's degrees after earning an undergraduate degree from Colorado State.

These stories illustrate how ASU's programs help athletes succeed academically while pursuing demanding sports careers.