These PVAMU student-athletes are taking their impact global

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (Apr. 6, 2026) – In recognition of National Student-Athlete Day, Prairie View A&M University set out to highlight student-athletes who embody excellence both in competition and in the classroom.

When we put out the call for stellar, well-rounded student-athletes, we knew it would not take long to receive a reply. After all, Prairie View A&M University’s athletics program is built on the kind of students coaches pray for and institutions proudly highlight. For those who understand the demands, identifying student-athletes at PVAMU who excel both in the classroom and in competition is a point of pride and distinction. The programs are D1, elite; the athletes are built to represent a strong, storied Panther legacy.

Within minutes of the request, Head Volleyball Coach Dottie Hampton responded, and she did not disappoint. The story behind her choice clearly highlighted what it means to be a Prairie View A&M University student-athlete.

Meet Camille Middleton, a freshman majoring in communications, and D’Mya Hill, a junior majoring in kinesiology. Their journeys, discipline, and purpose have earned them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent PVAMU and HBCU excellence on a global stage.

June 1-13, outside hitters Camille and D’Mya will travel to Botswana to compete in the Ditsala International Cup, a premier women’s volleyball tournament that brings together collegiate student-athletes from the United States and national teams across Southern Africa.

Make no mistake; this is far more than a traditional study abroad experience. In fact, the journey extends beyond competition. These teammates will help host youth clinics, participate in coaching workshops, and engage directly with local communities while experiencing the culture and history of the region, including visits to Mokolodi Game Reserve, Khama Rhino Sanctuary, and Victoria Falls.

Experiences like this exemplify what Prairie View A&M University student-athletes represent; they are not one-dimensional. These players are well-rounded individuals who serve not only their team, but their university and the broader community, even on another continent.

D’Mya, who is from Lubbock, Texas, and has never traveled outside of the United States, says the experience is both personal and meaningful. “This is such a great opportunity, not only for the athletic part of it, but to see different cultures and experience where our ancestors come from,” she shared.

Camille, a Fort Worth, Texas, native, shares that sense of appreciation while also embracing the unknown. “I never imagined volleyball could take me somewhere like this. I just want to learn about the game, about people, and about life outside of what I am used to,” she said.

For Coach Hampton, the significance of this opportunity reaches far beyond the court.

“This experience is going to open their eyes and their hearts in ways that will stay with them for the rest of their lives. They will grow not just as players, but as more empathetic, more aware, and more powerful young women who will bring that perspective back to Prairie View.”

As we delved deeper into the hearts and minds of the student-athletes and the coach, we discovered their vision reflects the broader experience of fulfilling the role at Prairie View A&M University. As they spoke, it was clear these were not rehearsed responses or polished soundbites. Their answers flowed with intention, and it was obvious they were shaped by discipline, faith, and the realities of balancing academics and athletics at a high level.

Why Prairie View?

For D’Mya, Prairie View A&M felt like home from the start. “The culture, the chemistry, the way people welcomed me, it just felt like where I was supposed to be,” she said.

Camille explained thoughtfully that the experience has been one of growth and discovery. “Being at an HBCU gave me an energy I had never experienced before. It has helped me grow not just as a player, but as a person.”

Champions Are Built Here:

That growth is evident in the success of the Prairie View Volleyball Program. The team is coming off a historic season as SWAC Regular Season Champions, finishing undefeated at home with a 7-0 record. Five players earned All-SWAC honors, including D’Mya Hill. The team has also been recognized by the Waller County Commissioner’s Office and will be honored at the upcoming PV Choice Awards.

Behind those accomplishments is a steady foundation built on hard work, sweat, and commitment. When asked about a typical day, both athletes smiled knowingly. Early morning workouts set the tone; the strenuous regimen is intended to push them to their limits. The days begin before sunrise with strength training, followed by hours of practice, classes, and study sessions. Camille admits it is a demanding schedule that requires discipline and consistency, but understands, “that is what we signed up for.”

A defining moment in the conversation with these two exceptional athletes was when they were asked about their priorities at the University. “We are students first,” D’Mya said. “We hold each other accountable in the classroom just like we do on the court.”

This was a testament to the balance that the coaches and their professors provide daily.

Family Matters:

On a more personal note, neither Camille nor D’Mya reached this point alone.

For Camille, her motivation is rooted in family. “If I gave up, it would be a slap in the face to everything my mom has done for me. I owe it to her and to myself to keep going.”

D’Mya noted that her family has shaped her path from the very beginning. Raised in a household of athletes and coached by her mother throughout her early years, she understands the value of support and accountability. “They have been my encouragement through everything.”

That same sense of support extends to their teammates.

“You learn so much from the people around you,” Camille said, her wisdom shining through. “Your teammates teach you in ways you don’t always expect. Being here, you’re surrounded by people who want to win, who are serious about what they do, and who are working toward something bigger than themselves.”

“Texas is so big, but we really do cater to each other”, D’Mya added. “When we are sick, when we are down, we are always there to help each other. That is what it is all about.”

Beating the Odds:

Their journeys have not been without challenges.

D’Mya has torn her ACL three times. Three.

Each injury could have ended her career. Instead, it strengthened her resolve. “People told me to quit, but I am not a quitter. This is my story. I have more to accomplish,” she said with a shrug of her shoulders; basically, making it clear that she does not believe in excuses!

Camille faced a different kind of adversity. She was told she was too small to compete at a high level. Rather than accept that limitation, she used it as motivation, more than prepared to show them that “Size does not matter,” she stated boldly. “It is about your heart and your work ethic. You cannot let people count you out,” she added, as her confidence swelled, filling the room.

D’Mya’s favorite quote sums it up nicely: “For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7)

More Than a Coach:

Both athletes credit Coach Hampton for helping them grow beyond their individual challenges. “It is amazing playing for her,” D’Mya said. “She has taught us so much, not just about volleyball, but about discipline and how to carry ourselves.” Camille recognized that influence early. “She emphasizes leadership and how you represent yourself. It is not just about volleyball. It is about who you are everywhere you go.”

Under her leadership, the team has developed a culture rooted in accountability, respect, and genuine connection. “We are like family,” D’Mya said. “You do not see that everywhere.”

Final Thoughts:

While their journeys continue to unfold, both Camille and D’Mya remain clear on one thing: the path is not easy, but it is worth it. For young women who aspire to compete at the collegiate level, their advice is grounded in real experience, discipline, and perseverance.

D’Mya offers a perspective shaped by overcoming injury, doubt, and expectation.

“Give yourself grace,” she said. “You can push yourself, but you also have to understand what you are coming back from. And when it comes to doubt, don’t let it stop you. You can either block it out or use it to fuel you. There are more people who believe in you than doubt you.”

Camille’s message reflects her own journey of persistence and self-belief.

“Do not give up,” she said. “Your work ethic will take you exactly where you are supposed to be.”

As we wrapped up our conversation, we looked to their leader for her final thoughts. And, it bears mentioning, that when speaking with Coach Hampton, one could not help but notice there was a protective and nurturing presence behind her strong, disciplined, and authoritative demeanor. She expects excellence and demands hard work; that’s a given. But what stood out even more was her genuine care for the young women she leads.

She reflected on her team, and her pride was unmistakable.

“These young women are smart, they are driven, and they are disciplined. What they do every day, balancing academics and athletics, is not easy, but they show up and handle their business. More importantly, they do it together. That sisterhood, that bond, and those life lessons they are building here will carry them far beyond volleyball.” She added, “They are becoming more than athletes. They are growing into more empathetic, more aware, and more powerful young women. Grounded in purpose, driven by grit, and anchored in faith.”

On National Student-Athlete Day, the Prairie View A&M University community recognizes students like Camille Middleton and D’Mya Hill who embody discipline, resilience, and purpose. Both represent a university that prepares them to lead, to serve, and to succeed.

While they are celebrated on this day, their impact is felt every day.

By Liz Faublas-Wallace

-PVAMU-