Athletes for Hope is proud to recognize our February AFH U Award Winners, honoring student-athletes who are using sport as a platform to serve others and strengthen their communities. With the support of our partners at Thrivent, AFH U continues to highlight athletes who show that leadership is about far more than performance—it’s about purpose.
AFH U Student-Athlete of the Month: Connor Perritt of Southern University Football
Connor Perritt is the definition of intentional leadership. Month after month, Connor actively seeks opportunities to give back—both individually and alongside his team—demonstrating a deep commitment to service in the Baton Rouge community.
This month alone, Connor made two visits to Southern Laboratory School, where he led kindergartners through fun physical activities and engaging story time. His ability to connect with young students, encourage movement, and create a welcoming environment reflects the heart of AFH U’s mission: meeting communities where they are and inspiring the next generation through presence and care.
Connor’s consistency and willingness to serve highlight how small moments—shared stories, movement, and encouragement—can have a lasting impact. His leadership reminds us that showing up matters.
AFH U Team of the Month: Howard Women’s Basketball
The LMU Baseball team is being recognized for their ongoing partnership with Westchester Little League, a collaboration rooted in mentorship, consistency, and genuine connection.
Throughout the semester, members of the LMU Baseball team visited weekly to support coaches during practices, assist with skill development, and mentor younger athletes on and off the field. For the kids of Westchester Little League, this partnership offered a rare and meaningful opportunity to learn from collegiate athletes they admire—an experience that will stay with them long after the season ends.
By committing their time and energy week after week, the LMU Baseball team demonstrated that impact isn’t about a single event—it’s about sustained engagement. Their dedication embodies the spirit of AFH U and the power of athletes to inspire confidence, growth, and joy in their communities.
Powered by Partnership: Thrivent x AFH
We’re deeply grateful to Thrivent for sponsoring the AFH University Awards and helping us celebrate student-athletes who embody service, compassion, and leadership. Together, we’re expanding opportunities for athletes to serve their communities and discover the power of sport as a tool for good.
With Thrivent’s support, AFH University continues to grow its reach — connecting more campuses, building a stronger culture of service, and inspiring athletes to see leadership as something that starts with giving back.
Celebrating Leadership Beyond the Game
Connor Perritt and the LMU Baseball team represent what AFH U is all about: athletes using their voices, time, and platforms to serve others and strengthen their communities.
We are proud to honor these leaders and grateful for the ripple effects of their service. Their work reminds us that when athletes lead with heart, the impact reaches far beyond the scoreboard.
Congratulations to this month’s AFH U Award recipients—and thank you for showing us what service through sport truly looks like.