Parker, Thompson Receive SEC Community Service Award

NORMAN — The Southeastern Conference announced Thursday the male and female Brad Davis Community Service Award winners for each of its 16 member institutions, and DJ Parker and Sydney Thompson were selected as the University of Oklahoma's recipients.

Parker, Thompson and the 30 honorees from the other 15 SEC schools, who will each receive a $7,500 post-graduate scholarship from the league, are now nominees for the Male and Female Brad Davis Community Service Leaders of the Year, which will be announced later this month. The two winners will each receive a $15,000 post-graduate scholarship, provided by the SEC.

Parker was a senior on OU's wrestling team last winter and holds a bachelor's degree in multidisciplinary studies while pursuing a master's degree in supply chain management. He has demonstrated a sustained commitment to mentorship and youth development throughout his collegiate career, while also excelling on the mat. A three-time NCAA qualifier and four-time Big 12 placewinner, Parker earned OU Wrestling MVP honors in 2025 and was named to the 2025-26 Allstate NACDA Good Works Team.

The Moline, Ill., product has dedicated significant time to coaching young wrestlers through the Shelton Wrestling Academy, where he works weekly with athletes on technique, discipline and personal growth. In addition, Parker has volunteered with physical education programs for special needs students at Terra Verde Discovery School, helping create an inclusive and supportive environment. His service also includes returning to his alma mater to support high school wrestlers, reinforcing his long-term investment in the sport and its next generation.

Thompson was a senior on OU's volleyball team last fall and earned a bachelor's degree in sports business with a minor in Spanish. She is currently pursuing a master's degree in intercollegiate athletics administration. She has built an extensive and consistent service record during her time at Oklahoma while serving as a team captain and four-year letterwinner for the Sooners.

The Tulsa, Okla., product was recognized for her service efforts with her selection to the 2025 SEC Community Service Team. Thompson's service work is highlighted by more than 100 hours with Food & Shelter Inc. in Norman, supporting food distribution efforts for individuals experiencing food insecurity. She has also participated in annual campus-wide initiatives such as The Big Event and the MLK Day of Service, while mentoring young athletes at Booker T. Washington High School in Tulsa through volleyball clinics and practices.

The SEC Community Service Post-Graduate Scholarship is named for former Associate Commissioner Brad Davis. Davis succumbed to cancer on March 2, 2006. He had been a member of the SEC staff since 1988, first serving as an assistant commissioner until 1994 when he was promoted to associate commissioner.