Simpson wrestler Nick Ackerman will be appearing on NBC's Today Show May 18.  The Ackerman feature is scheduled to run at 7:35 p.m. (local time).  Ackerman, who had his legs amputated below the knees due to bacterial mengitits when he was 1 1/2 years old, was selected the 2001 Hodge Award winner (named with Iowa State's Cael Sanderson)--emblematic of the Outstanding Wrestler in the sport of College wrestling--Apr. 19.  It was first time two wrestlers have shared the award and it is the first time a Division III wrestler earned the honor    The Colfax, Iowa native defeated 2000 National Champion Nick Slack of Augsburg 13-11 in the finals to win the 174 pound National Championship Mar. 3.  Ackerman, Simpson's 16th All-American in school history,  was named the "Outstanding Wrestler" of the 2001 National Championships.  He is the third Simpson wrestler to win a National Championship, joining Travis Young (150, 1991-92) and Cory Christensen (158, 1998).    He finished the year with a 38-4 record and 13 pins.  He received a proclaimation Mar. 8 at the Iowa State house to celebrate his championship.