Columbia News

Senior Will Whittington and graduate student Sierra Smith have been named to the 2025 Southeastern Conference (SEC) Men's and Women's Swimming & Diving Community Service Teams. The announcement was made Tuesday by the SEC.

The SEC recognizes athletes from each of its member schools who demonstrate notable commitment to community service across all 22 league-sponsored sports.

Whittington has contributed 107 hours of community service, participating in activities with Special Olympics that include swimming, basketball, bowling, and other regional sports. He is also a two-time member of the Winter SEC Academic Honor Roll.

Smith has accumulated over 280 hours of volunteer work during her time at the University of Missouri. She has worked with Turning Point, leading weekly bingo or Bible study sessions for people experiencing homelessness. At the Crossing Church, Smith participated in a prayer shawl ministry, creating shawls to give to those in need. Smith received the 2024 Harry Bell Memorial Award for leadership and service within the swimming and diving team. She has been named to the Winter SEC Academic Honor Roll for three consecutive seasons and earned CSCAA Scholar All American first-team honors from 2021 through 2023, as well as second-team recognition in 2024.

The Tigers are set to compete in the 2025 SEC Swimming and Diving Championships from February 17-22 in Athens, Georgia. They will also host the Mizzou Qualifier on March 1-2 at Mizzou Aquatic Center.

For updates on Missouri swimming and diving, information is available at MUTigers.com or through their social media channels on X, Instagram, and Facebook.