Hempstead, NY - Three Hofstra University student-athletes - Kyndall Jackson (women's lacrosse), Pierce Infuso (men's soccer), and Olivia Malinowski (softball) - were named recipients of the CAA Leadership and Sport Excellence Award in their respective sports, the league office announced today. 

Hofstra's three honorees were the second most in the league behind Elon's four. 

The award mimics the Chuck Boone Leadership Award in football and the Dean Ehlers Leadership Award in men's and women's basketball. One student-athlete, who represents the highest standards of teamwork, integrity, leadership, and sportsmanship in his or her academic and athletic achievements, was selected in each of the other sports sponsored by the Conference. Nominees must be at the junior, senior or graduate academic level.

After evaluating the nominees, the CAA's Faculty Athletic Representatives voted on the winners.

Hofstra's recipients are as follows: 

Kyndall Jackson, Hofstra – Jackson compiled a 3.95 GPA while majoring in exercise physiology with a minor in disability studies. She has been a member of the Provost's List, Dean's List and the Athletic Director Scholars Academic Honor Roll in multiple semesters. Jackson has served on the SAAC Executive Board as the group's secretary and has been involved in numerous community service projects. On the field, Jackson competed in eight games this season as a midfielder and contributed five assists and a pair of ground balls.

Pierce Infuso, Hofstra – Infuso completed his bachelor's degree in finance with a 3.65 GPA and added a master's degree in finance with a 3.8 GPA. A five-time Dean's List member, he received CSC Frst Team Academic All-America accolades in 2024 and twice was recognized as a USC First Team Scholar All-American. A three-year team captain, he participated in the Col. E. David Woycik Pride Leadership Academy. On the field, Infuso helped lead Hofstra to four consecutive CAA Men's Soccer Championship titles and four NCAA appearances. The defender twice received First Team All-CAA and First Team All-Atlantic Region accolades and he was named a Third Team All-American in 2023.

Olivia Malinowski, Hofstra – Malinowski received a bachelor's degree in linguistics and global studies which compiling a 3.73 GPA. She was a three-time NFCA/Easton All-America Scholar-Athlete and made the Hofstra Athletic Director Scholars Academic Honor Roll in five semesters. Malinowski served as vice president of Hofstra SAAC and has taken part in a variety of community service projects. On the field, Malinowski was a four-year letterwinner as a catcher and designated player. She made the All-CAA Second Team in 2024.