TOLEDO, Ohio – Six University of Toledo student-athletes joined President Dr. James Holloway and members of the Athletics administration for dinner and conversation at Maumee Bay Brew Pub last week, as part of the University's Dining with the Deans program.

The dinner series gives student-athletes a chance to connect with University leadership, share their experiences, and discuss opportunities for growth both on and off the field.

"I enjoyed having dinner with Chris, Charlie, Tyler, Leah, Eli and Jaydon, as well as the Athletics staff," Holloway said. "It was a lovely evening of conversation, and each of our students had interesting experiences to relate on how they came to be at UToledo and to participate in their sports. We have many reasons to be proud of UToledo, and these student-athletes are not the least of these. I see bright futures for each as they complete their studies and bring their talents and leadership into the world."

Student-athletes said the evening was an opportunity to connect personally with President Holloway and gain insight into life beyond college athletics.

"I really enjoyed learning about the president's experience through undergrad and then throughout his life," said Leah Evans of the women's swimming & diving team. "It was especially interesting to hear about how every class he took ended up being applicable in future life."

"Moments like this remind me of the amazing opportunities that I get as a student-athlete and not everyone gets to dine with the president of the University," said Jaydon Cirincione, a member of the women's cross country and track team. "I got to learn the enlightening perspective of our president on a multiple of topics that are important to both the Toledo community and its student-athletes."

Athletics administrators in attendance included Bryan B Blair, Vice President and Director of Athletics; Nicole Harris, Deputy Athletic Director/COO; Traci Snyder, Director of Student-Athlete Development; Kim Nigem, Faculty Athletics Representative; and Jillian Lehman, Associate AD for Student-Athlete Experience.

Student-athletes who attended were Chris D'Appolonia (Football), Charlie Scholvin (Baseball), Tyler Ode (Men's Basketball), Leah Evans (Women's Swimming & Diving), Eli Enriquez (Softball), and Jaydon Cirincione (Women's Cross Country/Track).
 
The Dining with the Deans program continues to highlight Toledo Athletics' commitment to student-athlete engagement, leadership and community connection. The program is in its fourth year and has now included 78 total student-athletes in 12 dinners with University leaders.