March 2025 Mustang Champions
Every year, the Spring symbolizes the Earth’s resilience and focus on continued growth and development for our exemplary student-athletes, who’s dedication to enhancing their individual skills, improve and inspire their teammates/peers, and give back though encourgaing engagegment in the Dallas community. This month, we are celebrating Mustang Champions that have strived to invest in themselves and their future personal development. Stangs are always leading the Charge!
BJ Edwards- Men’s Basketball
BJ Edwards, a senior point guard, has embodied what it means to be a Mustang Champion. A starter for the Men’s Basketball team, BJ has shown commitment to his academics by his ability to communicate and advocate for himself in the classroom; “Watching BJ grow in his academic confidence and accountability has been truly inspiring. He tackles challenges head-on and approaches difficult assignments with a calm willingness. BJ maintains the best quality of a life-long learner, and that is his curiosity. He’s a champion this month and always, stated Samantha LoCoco, ADSA. He is on track to graduate with a degree in Sports Management in the Spring of 2026.
Hedda Kvalvag (Track & Field/ Cross Country)
Meet Hedda, a standout triple jumper and All-ACC honoree. She has made a remarkable impact at SMU, both on and off the field. Originally from Olso, Norway, she has overcome the challenges of adjusting to a new country, culture, and academic system with resilience and grace. A natural leader, Katie Evans, Senior Academic Counselor, added that, “Hedda approaches everything she does with kindness, determination, and a strong sense of purpose. As a dedicated student-athlete, she continues to impress with her growth, resilience, and the way she carries herself both in the classroom and on the track.” She is pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Sport Management and is on track to graduate in Spring 2026. She brings energy and enthusiasm to the classroom while inspiring her teammates through her work ethic and integrity. She consistently strives to do the right thing and be her best in everything she takes on, making her a powerful example of what it means to be a Mustang Champion!
Jentry Lamirand (Volleyball)
Jentry, a senior, was the sole captain of SMU’s Volleyball team. In Fall 2024, she made the ACC All-Academic Team. Athletics shared that she participates in Life After Ball and will be leading Team Impact. Jentry will be graduating in May 2025 with her B.B.A in accounting from Cox. Her Senior Academic counselor, Alana Owens, highlights Jentry’s character, “an amazing individual on and off the court. She is an example of a true leader for the young ladies on the volleyball team and a constant support to her peers. She is pursuing a master’s in accounting starting in the Fall”. Jentry will complete her bachelor’s degree in 3 years; we look forward to supporting her throughout graduate school.
Zakye Barker (Football)
Junior transfer, Zakye Barker has made a significantly positive impact since his arrival on the Hilltop this Spring. As a linebacker, he isn’t just making plays; he’s covering the whole field by building connections with teammates, staff, and faculty across campus. Majoring in Psychology, he takes the same approach on or off the field with equal passion, leading by example. Faculty members consistently commend his active participation and engagement in class, noting his diligent approach to notetaking. He serves as a positive influence on his peers. Keyana Smith, ADSA Director, is impressed with Zakye effective communication, timely completion of responsibilities, and shares he is consistently respectful and professional. He is one to watch out for!
