Story originally posted at https://www.heartofamericaconference.com/landing/index.

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – The Heart of America Athletic Conference was represented at the 2026 NAIA Convention 2026, held April 9–14 in Kansas City, Missouri, as institutional leaders gathered for national meetings and governance sessions shaping the future of NAIA athletics. 

A key highlight for the Heart came as Benedictine College Senior Woman Leader Annie Hart was selected as Vice President-Elect of the NAIA Senior Woman Leader Association (SWLA), marking a significant step in her continued leadership progression at the national level. 

"Annie is an outstanding advocate for Senior Woman Leaders and someone who truly understands the impact of this role," said Madison Lantz-Farris, Heart Assistant Commissioner/Senior Woman Leader. "Her care for The Heart, Benedictine College, and the advancement of the SWL role across the NAIA is evident in everything she does. We are proud to have her represent The Heart and couldn't be more excited about her election as SWLA Vice President-Elect." 

Hart currently serves as Benedictine College's Senior Woman Leader for Athletics. In that role, she serves as the Champions of Character Coordinator, Student Athlete Leadership Team Co-Advisor, Chi Alpha Sigma Honor Society Advisor, along with academic support, mentoring, and game day roles. Since joining Benedictine in 2022, she has taught courses in the Health, Wellness, and Education Department and in the School of Education, including Elementary PE Curriculum, Elementary Theology Methods, Wellness for Life, and College Success, while also contributing to the Master of Arts in Teaching program. 

"I am excited and humbled to serve as Vice President-Elect of the SWLA," Hart said. "Personally, I am looking forward to putting into action many of the life lessons that I've learned from my mentors and role models. Professionally, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve student-athletes, coaches, and colleagues throughout the NAIA. Collaborating with Brittney and Erica to move the SWLA to new heights together, and the opportunity to continue speaking up for women in athletics, is a great gift and a professional responsibility." 

In addition to her academic and administrative roles, Hart brings extensive experience in athletic leadership and education. Prior to her time at Benedictine, she served for more than a decade at St. Benedict Catholic School in Atchison, Kansas, where she was both Physical Education teacher and Athletic Director. During her tenure, she helped guide the school to multiple league championships and was recognized locally for her impact as an educator and leader. 

Within SWLA, Hart currently serves as the Awards Subcommittee Chair, where she helps oversee efforts to recognize and elevate excellence in NAIA leadership, service, and impact. The committee focuses on identifying and submitting nominations for national and external awards, helping to ensure women's contributions across the association are highlighted on a broader stage. 

"Leading the SWLA Awards Subcommittee over the last year has reiterated the importance of elevating women in collegiate athletics," Hart said. "There are so many women leaders in college athletics who are doing incredible things. Women in collegiate athletics are shining each day—often behind the scenes and under the radar. Our goal is to make sure those contributions are seen and celebrated." 

Hart will now begin a structured leadership progression within SWLA, serving a two-year term as Vice President-Elect before advancing through successive roles as Vice President, President, and Past President. 

The SWLA executive leadership group also saw additional transitions during Convention. Brittany Kellar (Southeastern University) moves into the role of President after serving as Vice President, Erica Baldaray (Soka University) advances to Vice President, and current President Fachaitte Kinslow (Texas A&M University–Texarkana) transitions into the role of Past President. 

"I am honored to represent the Heart of America Athletic Conference on the National SWLA Executive Board," Hart said. "The Heart is a model throughout the NAIA in leading by example, setting high standards, and fully embracing 'The Right Way to Play.' I plan to live that same mission as I serve on SWLA." 

For the Heart of America Athletic Conference, Hart's selection underscores the conference's continued presence in national leadership conversations and its commitment to developing leaders who impact the NAIA at both the institutional and national levels.

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