Student Athletes Honored as NAIA Champions of Character

Cornerstone Awarded Five-Star Institution Award.

Cornerstone University has been honored with the NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Institution Award, achieving Gold-level status with a perfect score of 100 points. This prestigious recognition highlights the university’s unwavering commitment to developing character-driven leaders both in academic and athletic pursuits.

The Champions of Character initiative evaluates athletic programs across five key areas: character training, conduct in competition, academic focus, character recognition, and character promotion. Universities earn recognition based on exceptional student-athlete academic performance and maintaining exemplary conduct during competition throughout the academic year.

Of the 237 programs in the NAIA, just 132 achieved Gold-level status, only 7 of which were from Michigan, placing Cornerstone among an elite group of universities that excel in balancing competitive athletics with character development.

The university’s student-athletes embody the values championed across all academic programs. Whether conducting research, serving in the community, or competing on the field, students consistently demonstrate the integrity, excellence, and service that define the Cornerstone experience.

This latest recognition adds to Cornerstone University’s growing reputation as a college that prepares graduates not just for career success, but for lives of purpose and impact. The Champions of Character award underscores the university’s commitment to developing the whole person – academically, athletically, and ethically.

To learn firsthand about Cornerstone University’s academic programs, athletic achievements, and commitment to character development, schedule a visit today!