Bethel University has been named a NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star institution as announced by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. The award covers the 2018-19 school year and is the fifth straight year Bethel has earned Gold Award status.
Bethel was among 181 Champions of Character Five-Star Institution winners. There were 112 gold winners, 46 silver winners, and 23 bronze winners. NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Conference Awards were earned by 16 NAIA Conferences.
The Champions of Character Scorecard measures a commitment to character training, academic focus, character promotion, conduct in competition, and character recognition on a scale of 0-100 points. Award levels are based on the number of points earned: gold (90-100 points), silver (75-89 points) and bronze (60-74 points).
Institutions are measured on a demonstrated commitment to Champions of Character and earned points in character training, conduct in competition, academic focus, character recognition and character promotion. Institutions earned points based on exceptional student-athlete grade point averages and by having minimal to no ejections during competition throughout the course of the academic year.
Bethel Associate Athletic Director Brad Chappell stated, “I am incredibly proud of our coaches and student-athletes for once again rising to the occasion and achieving five start gold status within the NAIA Champions of Character initiative. It speaks to the integrity of our staff and the people they recruit. This initiative places great emphasis on character training, academic focus, and conduct in competition.”
“Since 2011/2012 Bethel University athletics has been recognized as a five star school and the last five years we have been a Five Star Gold School which is the highest rating you can achieve in the program. We have been able to volunteer within our local communities resulting in thousands of hours of donated time to help spread the message of integrity, servant leadership, and sportsmanship, respect and responsibility.”
