News Summary
The Coastal Carolina University community mourns the loss of Alise Svihla, beloved Associate Athletic Director who passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. Her dedication to student-athlete development and her vibrant spirit left a lasting legacy evident in the recent renaming of the Student-Athlete Development Department in her honor. The community rallied around her during her illness, showcasing love and support through fundraising efforts. Alise’s remarkable achievements and positive influence will be remembered by all who knew her.
Coastal Carolina University Mourns the Loss of Alise Svihla
In a heartbreaking turn of events, the vibrant community of Coastal Carolina University (CCU) is coming together to remember its beloved Associate Athletic Director, Alise Svihla. The news of her passing was shared by President Michael T. Benson on social media, making March 25, 2025, a day filled with sorrow and reflection for many.
A Gifted Soul Taken Too Soon
Alise Svihla was not just a leader in the world of athletics; she was a beacon of positivity and courage for everyone around her. Her battle with cancer began back in October 2022, and despite the challenges she faced, she remained a steadfast presence at CCU, known for her radiant spirit and unwavering dedication.
A Fond Farewell and A Lasting Legacy
Just a week before her passing, the university took a monumental step by renaming the Student-Athlete Development and Engagement Department in her honor. This gesture not only celebrated her legacy but also showcased the immense impact she had on the university’s athletic programs in such a short time. Svihla joined CCU on May 23, 2022, after making notable contributions at James Madison University, the University of South Carolina, and Virginia Tech within similar academic support roles.
Community Support Shines Bright
During her courageous fight against cancer, a GoFundMe page was set up to assist with her medical expenses, which raised over $35,000, highlighting the outpouring of love and compassion from the community. Just two days before she transitioned to home hospice care, Svihla expressed her gratitude for the support she received from those whose lives she touched.
Building for the Future
Throughout her time at CCU, Alise didn’t just focus on her survival; she also focused on the futures of student-athletes at the university. Her commitment was unwavering, even during a leave for treatment in late 2023. She continued to support student-athletes academically, ensuring their success remained a top priority.
Recently, she took significant strides by launching the new student-athlete development and engagement department in January 2025, along with initiating the Teal Impact program—evidence of her dedication to fostering an enriched environment for the athletes. Additionally, Svihla played a significant role in the creation of an event called Hoops & Heels for National Girls and Women in Sports Day 2025, which celebrated women’s contributions to sports.
A Record of Achievement
Under her leadership, the department achieved an impressive record of maintaining a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher for 20 consecutive semesters. This feat is a testament to her commitment to both academic excellence and the well-being of her students.
A Community in Mourning
The CCU community is left to reflect on the impact that Alise had on both the athletic and academic fields. A heartfelt statement from the campus community was shared, expressing deep sympathy for her family, friends, and colleagues. In a world often overshadowed by challenges, Alise was known for her zest for life and her unique ability to make each person feel seen and cherished.
As the university mourns this profound loss, it also celebrates a life that lived bright and true. Alise Svihla will be remembered not only for her remarkable achievements but also for her heartwarming spirit that inspired countless individuals. Her influence will undoubtedly linger, reminding all of us why we strive for greatness.
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Additional Resources
- Coastal Carolina Sports
- WBTW News
- WMBF News
- My Horry News
- GoFundMe
- Wikipedia: Colon Cancer
- Google Search: Alise Svihla
- Google Scholar: Alise Svihla
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Colon Cancer
- Google News: Alise Svihla
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