KANSAS CITY, Mo. (MadonnaCrusaders.com) - - It was announced Thursday (Jan. 14) by the NAIA National Office that Madonna University freshman softball student-athlete Amber Rafko (Monroe, Mich.) is one of 13 student-athletes that have been selected to participate in the 2010-2011 Red Cross/NAIA Collegiate Leadership Program. The initiative is now in its fourth year, and will inspire, motivate and create a new and diverse generation of American Red Cross volunteers and leaders through exemplifying the five core values of the NAIA Champions of Character program.
"It's an honor to be the first student-athlete from Madonna University to be chosen for the program from so many deserving student-athletes," commented Rafko after finding out about her selection. "I hope that my success can be continued so that another student from Madonna can be picked so that we can really show what great students we have at Madonna University."

As part of its support of the Red Cross diversity initiatives, State Farm Insurance is sponsoring this partnership. The leadership program kicks off with two weeks of energetic training at the Red Cross National Headquarters located in Washington, D.C. from June 7 to June 18. The incoming class will participate in a rare and unique opportunity to acquire first-hand coaching, mentoring and professional leadership training presented by one of the nation's largest non-profit organizations' senior leaders. In addition, Dr. Rob Haworth, NAIA Vice President for Champions of Character, will hold character workshops during the two week leadership academy.

"Athletics plays such an important role in creating a sense of community on college campuses. The partnership with the NAIA has created a rich opportunity to connect campus communities with the life saving mission of the Red Cross through the energy of NAIA student-athletes," said Brian Hamil, Red Cross National Chair Biomedical Services. "As we enter our fourth year of the program, we remain grateful for the continuing financial support of State Farm Insurance."

"Student-athletes selected for the Red Cross/NAIA Collegiate Leadership Program will gain valuable skill sets tailored for students who wish to become more in tune with their leadership potential and cultivate a better understanding of the Red Cross and the NAIA," said Haworth. "We are extremely pleased with our partnership with the Red Cross and State Farm Insurance. Not only is this a wonderful opportunity to develop young leaders but it will also broaden student horizons."