Former USCA chancellor receives NCAA award presented by Peach Belt leader

Dr. Jordan served as chancellor of USCA from 2012 to 2021.

USCA Chancellor Emerita Sandra Jordan received the National Collegiate Athletic Association Meritorious Service Award, presented by Peach Belt Conference Commissioner Diana Kling on March 28.

“Dr. Jordan’s legacy within the Peach Belt is one of service, mentorship and meaningful progress,” Kling said. “Her energy and enthusiasm for students are unmatched, and those who had the privilege to work with or alongside her are better for it. She is the epitome of servant leadership, and her impact will be felt for years to come.”

As a recipient of the Division II Conference Commissioners Association (D2 CCA) Meritorious Service Award, Jordan was recognized for her leadership, service and contributions to NCAA Division II athletics.

“I am deeply honored to receive the NCAA Meritorious Service Award. The opportunity to serve this organization, similar to my service as chancellor of USCA, has been one of the great privileges of my professional life,” Jordan said when presented the award just before a USCA softball game in Aiken.

She served in significant leadership roles within the NCAA and DII during her career, including:

• Chair, NCAA Division II President's Council; 
• Vice-chair, NCAA Board of Governors, 2019-2021; 
• Chair, NCAA DII Planning & Finance Committee, 2018-2021; 
• Chair, Peach Belt Conference, Board of Directors; and 
• Member, NCAA Committee on Sexual Violence Prevention 

“During her tenure, the conference revised its policies to expand participation for associate members, opening the door for more student-athletes to experience championship competition and also protecting automatic qualification opportunities," Kling said.

In addition to her term as chair of the Peach Belt Conference Board of Directors, Jordan was vice-chair of the NCAA Board of Governors during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing steady leadership during an unprecedented crisis in collegiate athletics. As a member of the NCAA's highest governing body, she played a critical role in guiding national policy decisions related to health and safety, eligibility and the financial challenges facing institutions and student-athletes.

“Dr. Jordan’s leadership in the Peach Belt Conference came at a critical time during the COVID-19 pandemic," Kling said. “In a period marked by uncertainty and unprecedented challenges, she helped guide both the conference and NCAA Division II with a steady hand—prioritizing opportunities for student-athletes to continue to compete in ways that protected their safety and well-being.”

Jordan’s voice helped ensure that Division II priorities remained central to the NCAA's response, contributing to a balanced and thoughtful approach during a time of significant uncertainty.

“This work deepened my understanding of just how transformative athletic opportunities can be for students — not only in competition, but in building character, resilience and a sense of belonging that helps them successfully navigate college and shapes them positively for life,” Jordan said.

Her career in higher education spans several decades and includes leadership positions at several Division II institutions. She served as the chancellor of USCA from 2012-21. Even after her retirement as chancellor of USCA, she continues to serve higher education as the chief of staff and vice president of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

“I am grateful beyond words for every collaboration, every conversation and every moment that reminded me why this work matters so much to our students and institutions,” she said.

Meritorious Service Awards are decided by the full Conference Commissioners Association membership upon recommendation by the Awards Committee. The intent is to recognize individuals who made a difference once they retire or leave Division II.

Established in 1992, the D2 CCA promotes its member conferences and institutions while advancing a unified vision for Division II athletics.

❮ ❯

✕

❮ ❯

Go Back More News