WAU Earns NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Institution Award for 2023-2024

TAKOMA PARK, MD – Washington Adventist University (WAU) has been honored with the prestigious NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Institution Award for the 2023-2024 academic year. This accolade recognizes WAU’s unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership within its athletics programs and across its campus community.

The NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) Champions of Character program aims to instill character-driven values in student-athletes, coaches, and administrators. The Five-Star Institution Award is awarded to institutions that excel in implementing and promoting the program’s core values. Each year, NAIA schools use the Champions of Character core report to measure the pursuit of character-driven athletics. Schools scoring at least 60 out of 100 points earn the Champions of Character Five-Star Institution Award.  

This year, WAU is one of 209 NAIA institutions earning this honor. WAU’s achievement is a testament to its dedication to creating an environment where student-athletes can thrive both on and off the field. This award reflects the university’s holistic approach to education, emphasizing academic and athletic excellence and the development of character and ethical leadership.

To qualify for the Champions of Character Five-Star Institution Award, universities must meet a stringent set of criteria, including:

1. Character Training: Implementing ongoing training programs for student-athletes, coaches, and staff to promote the Champions of Character values.
2. Conduct in Competition: Demonstrating sportsmanship and respect in all athletic competitions, minimizing ejections, and maintaining a positive competitive environment.
3. Academic Focus: Achieving a high level of academic success and graduation rates among student-athletes.
4. Character Recognition: Publicly recognizing student-athletes, teams, and individuals who exemplify the Champions of Character values.
5. Commitment to Community: Engaging in community service and outreach programs reflecting the institution’s servant leadership commitment

Under the leadership of Athletic Director Jered Lyons, WAU’s athletic department has consistently prioritized the holistic development of its student-athletes. The university’s emphasis on integrity and character is evident in the behavior and performance of its athletes, both on the field and in their academic pursuits.

WAU Earns NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Institution Award for 2023-2024

WAU’s student-athletes have actively participated in various community service projects, demonstrating their dedication to making a positive impact beyond the campus. Initiatives such as the Washington Adventist University Spirit of Community Service Day allowed the university to build strong connections with the surrounding community and exemplify the spirit of servant leadership.

As WAU celebrates this significant achievement, the institution remains committed to maintaining and enhancing its culture of character-driven excellence. Recognition as a Champions of Character Five-Star Institution underscores WAU’s mission to develop skilled athletes and compassionate, responsible, and ethical leaders who are prepared to make a difference in the world.