INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- Former Simpson College men's wrestler Nick Ackerman will be honored in January at the NCAA Convention with the NCAA Silver Anniversary Award.
Nick Ackerman earned this award through a groundbreaking athletic achievement and a lifelong commitment to advocacy, mentorship and medical excellence. As a Simpson wrestler in 2001, he defeated the defending champion at 174 pounds to become the first NCAA athlete to win a national wrestling title without the use of his legs, which were amputated just below the knees when he was a toddler. His victory is considered one of the most dramatic in NCAA history and was selected in 2006 as one of the “25 Defining Moments in NCAA History.” Since then, Ackerman has built a distinguished career as a prosthetist, led legislative efforts like Iowa’s Prosthetic Parity Law, mentored youth and veterans, and inspired thousands through his speaking and service.
Marking 25 years since the conclusion of their college sports careers, these distinguished alumni are recognized for continued excellence. The Silver Anniversary Award celebrates the achievements and contributions of former student-athletes who have excelled in their professional lives and continue to exemplify the values of collegiate athletics.
About the American Rivers Conference
Nationally respected for excellence in NCAA Division III athletics, the American Rivers Conference (A-R-C) has a tradition dating back to its founding in 1922 as the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Association and adopted its current name in 2018 to reflect its strong Iowa roots and growing regional footprint. The A-R-C is a collaborative community that champions the holistic development of student-athletes, uniting member institutions in a shared commitment to academic achievement, athletic distinction, and leadership.
The A-R-C is home to nine full-time member institutions: Buena Vista University, Central College, Coe College, University of Dubuque, Loras College, Luther College, Nebraska Wesleyan University, Simpson College, and Wartburg College. Luther College has announced its departure from the conference, effective at the conclusion of the 2025–26 academic year.
