Benedictine University (BenU) Mesa Athletics has been recognized with the NAIA Champions of Character® Gold Five-Star Institution Award for the 2025-26 academic year, achieving the highest possible distinction with a perfect score of 100 points .
The award, earned by 203 NAIA member institutions nationwide, honors schools that demonstrate a strong commitment to character-driven athletics . Institutions earn points in five key areas: character training, conduct in competition, academic focus, character recognition, and character promotion . This Gold-level recognition highlights the University’s commitment to the core values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership .
BenU Mesa’s achievement reflects the dedication of its student-athletes, coaches, and staff to excellence both on and off the field. Points are awarded based on factors such as outstanding student-athlete GPA achievements and maintaining high standards of sportsmanship with minimal or no ejections throughout the academic year .
Read more about this achievement on our athletics site: BenU Recognized as NAIA Champions of Character Gold Five-Star Institution
