In the world of track and field, where athletes push their bodies to the limit and strive for excellence, one name stands out for her remarkable achievements both on and off the track: Dahlia Barnes. This sophomore from Florida Atlantic University (FAU) has been making waves in the sport with her impressive performances, outstanding academic record, and significant community service endeavors.

Born on November 8, in the Bronx, New York, but raised in Margate, Florida, Dahlia Barnes has always been driven to succeed. Her athletic journey began at the Island Academy International School, where she excelled in multiple sports. Barnes was a standout athlete, winning the MVP for the International School Championship in 2016 and earning a myriad of accolades at graduation, including the science award, technology award, and citizenship award[5].

Barnes’s decision to attend Florida Atlantic University was influenced by its proximity to her hometown and the presence of family members just 20 minutes away. She chose to major in health science with a concentration in science, aligning her academic pursuits with her professional goal of becoming a pediatrician[5].

Dahlia Barnes has quickly established herself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of track and field. Here are some of her notable achievements:

– **Long Jump:** Barnes has set several personal bests in the long jump event. At the UCF Invitational, she jumped 5.59 meters, which ranks ninth in Florida Atlantic University history[1]. Her outdoor season performance at the Miami Hurricane Invitational saw her jump 5.49 meters, placing her among the top performers in her conference[5].

– **Academic Excellence:** Barnes is not just a standout athlete; she is also an exemplary student. She has been named to the C-USA Commissioner’s Honor Roll four times and received the C-USA Commissioner’s Academic Medal in 2021[1][5]. Her academic achievements have earned her a spot on the FAU All-Academic team for seven semesters.

Beyond her athletic and academic prowess, Dahlia Barnes is deeply committed to community service. She serves as the vice president of FAU’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and is active in the C-USA SAAC diversity, equity, and inclusion working group[1]. Her community service endeavors include preparing food at Boca Helping Hands, serving at booths for Medical Mission Abroad, and participating in Read Across America and Girls on the Run[1].

In recent years, athletes have leveraged their influence through Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. Dahlia Barnes has also ventured into this space, offering various services such as recording videos, posting on social media, attending events, and signing autographs through Opendorse[3].

In 2023, Barnes faced a significant challenge when she suffered back-to-back injuries. However, her determination and resilience allowed her to fully recover and return to competition. Her journey back to the track serves as an inspiration to many young athletes facing similar challenges[4].

Dahlia Barnes is more than just a talented track and field athlete; she is a leader, a scholar, and a dedicated community servant. Her achievements both on and off the track make her a role model for aspiring athletes and students alike. As she continues to excel in her sport and make a positive impact in her community, it is clear that Dahlia Barnes is a star whose light will shine brightly in the world of track and field for years to come.

– **Height:** 5’4″

– **Major:** Health Science

– **Hometown:** Margate, Florida

– **High School:** Island Academy International School

– **Personal Bests:**

  – Indoor Long Jump: 5.37m

  – Outdoor Long Jump: 5.59m

  – Academic Achievements:

    – C-USA Commissioner’s Academic Medal (2021)

    – C-USA Commissioner’s Honor Roll (four times)

    – FAU All-Academic team (seven semesters)

– “Dahlia is one of our team captains for a reason. She always leads by example and strives to do her best,” said track & field coach Georgette Nixon. “Dahlia embodies the three C’s in leading the team: caring, courageous, and consistent. She is a great example to her team as well as leading in SAAC and in the general student body. Consistency has been shown on and off the track and I’m not surprised she has earned this honor. Go Dahlia You deserve it!”