KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association will present the SAAC Mentor of the Year award to its 2025-26 recipient this weekend in Hays, Kan. Fort Hays State Associate Athletic Director Dixie Balman was named the 2025-26 SAAC Mentor of the Year. MIAA Director for Student-Athlete Development & External Engagement Taylor Savolt will present Balman with the SAAC Mentor of the Year award on Saturday, September 19, during the first half of the Fort Hays State football game vs. Pittsburg State, which kicks off at 7 p.m.

The MIAA SAAC Mentor of the Year award is annually given to an individual who has had a profound impact on the lives of student-athletes on campus throughout the year or during their career. Balman was nominated by Fort Hays State SAAC and voted as the winner by MIAA SAAC.
 
"The SAAC Mentor of the Year Award is important because it recognizes those who make a meaningful difference in the student-athlete experience," said Savolt. "It's a special opportunity to recognize those who give their time, guidance, and support to help student-athletes find their voice and grow as leaders."
 
Balman's commitment to student-athletes spans more than two decades at Fort Hays State University. After 15 years in the Office of Financial Assistance, Dixie transitioned into athletics, where she has served as an Associate Athletic Director, as well as the Director of Compliance and Senior Woman Administrator for the past 12 years.
 
She has been a valued and trusted member of the Fort Hays State athletics community throughout her career. Her willingness to be present, whether in her office or on the sidelines, and her genuine investment in the people around her have allowed her to build lasting connections with student-athletes and coaches alike. As a SAAC advisor, she brings that same dedication helping create a strong and connected student-athlete community at Fort Hays State University.

As a SAAC advisor, Dixie has played an instrumental role in supporting student-athlete leadership and development beyond competition. She encourages student-athletes to find their voice, take ownership and engage in service, while fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds. Through her accessibility, authenticity and dedication to student-athlete success, Dixie exemplifies the impact of a strong SAAC mentor and the importance of putting the student first.

"The dedication and care Dixie has towards student athletes and their coaches here at Fort Hays makes her beyond deserving of the MIAA SAAC Mentor of the Year award. Her efforts have not only worked to uplift and to encourage those around her, but also functioned as a cornerstone for FHSU SAAC." – Janae Montoya, FHSU SAAC President and FHSU tennis student-athlete.