University of Delaware Athletics
DACCR Holds Student-Athlete Networking Event
10/27/2025 5:06:00 PM | Delaware Athletics
NEWARK, Del. – Over 300 University of Delaware student-athletes and 50 employers attended a networking event held by the Department of Athletics and the Division of Student Life on Tuesday, October 7.
The event was an opportunity for student-athletes to practice networking and communication skills, while connecting with alumni and professionals from various industries. Participants put to use their knowledge gained from the B.L.U.E. (Building Leaders Utilizing Education) program to expand their professional networks and explore career paths.
"The Student-Athlete Networking Night was a wonderful event for the UD community," Director of Student Services for Athletes, Angela Johnson said. "It embodied our mission of empowering student-athlete success, in and out of the classroom. So many meaningful connections were made, and we are excited to see those relationships grow! Huge thanks to Steven Caulfield, Associate Director of Career Readiness who coordinated the event, along with all of the coaches, administrators, student-athletes, and employers who made the night a success."
When asked about the event, both the employers and the student-athletes shared similar sentiments:
"I thought the students did a really nice job," Lisa Henderson, math teacher at Delcastle Technical Highschool and softball alum said. "There is a shortage of teachers, and I was encouraged to speak to a handful of current student athletes interested in the education field. They presented themselves well, showed passion, and asked thoughtful questions. It was a great setting to speak candidly about my somewhat unconventional path/experience."
"I had the opportunity to meet with an orthopedic surgeon and gained valuable insight into the field, and will soon have the chance to shadow him," ice hockey player Maddie Bonavita said. "This experience is especially exciting as it aligns with my long-term goal of pursuing a career in the medical field."
"It was an excellent event," baseball alum Joe Giacchino said. "I was impressed by the initiative taken by the student-athletes, particularly the freshman. The event made me proud to be an alum."
"It was great to talk to the professionals because I was able to get more insight on what the actual day to day work was like in the finance and accounting fields," football player Carter Sareyka said. "Sports have always been a huge part of my life, and talking to our alumni about how much they benefited in their careers from being a student athlete here was really helpful, and I'm looking forward to reconnecting with some of them at their offices after the season's over."
