(Leavenworth, Kansas) – The University of Saint Mary has been recognized as a Champion of Character Five-Star Institution with Gold Status by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. This marks the 16th consecutive year USM has received this honor since its inception in 2010.
This recognition celebrates USM’s efforts in building character-driven athletic programs. NAIA institutions can receive this award in one of three tiers: Gold, Silver, and Bronze. To be awarded the Gold Status, an institution and itsstudent-athletes must demonstrate character training, conduct in competition, academic focus, character recognition, and character promotion in student academics and athletics.
“Being awarded Gold Status by the NAIA once again is encouraging as we continue to strive for excellence,” Vice President of Athletics Rob Miller said. “The dedication and commitment to growth that our coaches and student-athletes exemplify allow our programs to excel, earning us this award each year.”
The NAIA Champions of Character program was created to help teach students how to balance the values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership in both sports and other areas of life. For more information about the NAIA and Champions of Character program, please visit naia.org.
The University of Saint Mary is a Catholic co-educational applied liberal arts university founded and sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. The University of Saint Mary main campus is located at 4100 South 4th Street, Leavenworth, Kan. USM-Johnson County, at 11221 Roe Ave., offers evening accelerated graduate and undergraduate degree-completion programs. The university also offers online programs. Visit stmary.edu for more information.