NCAA Committee Holds First Meeting to Promote Equity and Opportunity

Charlotte, NC (October 3, 2025) – The Committee on Access, Opportunity and Impact (CAOI) of the NCAA came together for its first meeting this week in Indianapolis. This committee, which consists of 25 members from all three NCAA divisions, aims to enhance equity and support for student-athletes.

During the two-day gathering, the committee worked on defining its mission, setting up an operating structure, and establishing subcommittees to help guide its efforts moving forward. The CAOI was formed after a detailed review of NCAA committees in 2022 and recommendations made by a working group in 2024.

In January 2025, NCAA divisional governing bodies approved changes to merge the duties of several long-standing committees, such as the Committee on Women’s Athletics and the Minority Opportunities and Interests Committee, into the new CAOI. The committee’s mission was established, focusing on providing equitable opportunities and promoting the overall well-being of student-athletes, alongside those who support them.

Jacqie McWilliams Parker, who leads the CAOI and has been the CIAA Commissioner since 2012, praised the unification of these committees. “This committee is both important and necessary,” commented McWilliams Parker. “We accomplished much in two days, building on decades of efforts to create pathways for all of us.”

The committee members, drawn from various backgrounds, are dedicated to fostering a culture of respect and enhancing educational and athletic experiences. They each bring valuable perspectives and passion to the table, which will assist in making a real difference in the lives of student-athletes.

With the groundwork laid, subcommittees are expected to begin their duties immediately, working to implement the goals of the CAOI. The committee plans to meet again in February 2026 to assess progress and continue its mission.

For more information about the committee and future initiatives, interested parties can follow updates on social media platforms.