Jami Morris Named to Inaugural Allstate NACDA Good Works Spring Team for Community Impact and Athletic Excellence
Northbrook’s Jami Morris Named to Inaugural Allstate NACDA Good Works Spring Team
NORTHBROOK, Ill. – In a remarkable recognition of her dedication to community service, senior Jami Morris from Chagrin Falls, Ohio, has been named one of 20 student-athletes to the inaugural Allstate NACDA Good Works Spring Team. The announcement was made by the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics on Tuesday morning.
This prestigious honor highlights the exceptional achievements of student-athletes across the nation in community service, athletics, and academics. This year marks a significant expansion of the Good Works Team, now including student-athletes from all collegiate sports and divisions.
The selection committee faced the challenging task of choosing from nearly 200 nominees, ultimately recognizing 20 outstanding individuals who represent 10 spring sports and five collegiate divisions. Their collective impact on their communities is a testament to the power of student-athletes beyond the playing field.
Morris, a nominee for the Big Ten Jackie Robinson Community and Impact Award, has been a beacon of hope and inspiration since her mother’s lymphoma diagnosis in 2020. Motivated by her family’s experience, she founded "Hit Fore Hope," a fundraising initiative aimed at supporting the University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland, Ohio, where her mother received treatment.
Starting at her home course, Beechmont Country Club, Morris set an ambitious goal of raising $10,000-$12,000 in her first year. To her astonishment, she raised over $71,000, with all proceeds benefiting the cancer center. This past summer, during the third annual event, she surpassed expectations once again, raising $107,000, bringing her total contributions to over $280,000.
In addition to her philanthropic efforts, Morris excels academically as a corporate innovation and entrepreneurship major, boasting a GPA above 3.5. A two-time Academic All-B1G member, she is set to graduate in May and aims to leverage her education and experiences to expand "Hit Fore Hope." Her vision includes incorporating pickleball and yoga events while maintaining golf as the primary focus. With plans to establish a presence in Ohio, she hopes to extend her initiative to states like Florida, California, and Texas, where she has family connections.
Morris’s story is a powerful reminder of the profound impact student-athletes can have in their communities, showcasing resilience, compassion, and leadership. As she prepares to graduate, her journey is just beginning, and her commitment to making a difference will undoubtedly inspire many.
