Division III Week Profile - Alex Severn

Division III Week Profile - Alex Severn

The NCAA celebrates the third annual Division III Week on April 7-14. In honor of the event, SimpsonAthletics.com is taking a close look at five individuals who personify what it means to be a Division III student-athlete.

Share your Division III story by using the #WhyD3 hashtag on Twitter.

Today, we share the story of football player, Alex Severn. The junior defensive tackle from Council Bluffs, Iowa, is national champion debate team member, the Student Body President, and plans to attend law school. Alex's success extends well beyond the field of play, making him a model Division III student-athlete.

Bio Blast

  • Name - Alex Severn
  • Major/Minor - Applied Philosophy/Mathematics and Political Science
  • Activities - Football, Student Body President, SGA Class Senator, SGA Financial Advisory Committee, Student Athlete Advisory Committee President, Student Ambassador, SAE Scholarship Chair, SAE Ritual Officer, SAE Standards and Ethics Board
  • Awards/Honors - Dean's List, Co-National Champion (College Public Forum Debate), ODK Leaders in Athletics, Capital One Academic All-District First Team
  • Future Plans - Attend Law School, get involved in politics

Why DIII and why Simpson?

I chose Division III football, as it comes as no surprise that other divisions didn't want a 5'11, 235 lbs defensive tackle! Besides allowing me the opportunity to continue to play, Simpson College offers renowned academics and a friendly and interactive staff including coaches, professors, and administrators that care about our success.

What opportunities have you had as a Division III student-athlete that have made your experience special?

Being a student athlete gives us experiences beyond just exercising our passion for the sport. Participating in athletics allows us to practice life skills in a competitive atmosphere that isn't life or death. Moreover, participation bolsters many business applicable skills that will extend beyond the lines of competition, such as responsibility, time-management, and commitment.

What is your favorite memory pertaining to your experience as a Division III student-athlete?

Beyond the multiple long-winded (yet inspirational) Coach [Jim Glogowski] Glow speeches, celebrating in Hopper after games to "All the Way Turnt Up" by Roscoe Dash. These celebrations exemplify how goals can be met by being committed and striving for better.

In your own words, what does it mean to be a Division III student-athlete?

The opportunity to be part of something that is bigger than yourself, creating tight-knit relationships, and developing life skills. ​