MIDWAY, Ky. -- Midway University has once again been recognized by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) as a Champions of Character Five-Star Award recipient. It marks the 13th straight year of receiving the honor, and the 6th consecutive year earning the Gold Level Distinction – the awards highest honor.

"This award is a testament to our student-athletes, coaches, and staff for their hard work in the classroom, community, and sports," said Rusty Kennedy, Vice President for Admissions and Athletics. "This is a great honor for our institution and reflects our commitment to the Champions of Character five core values."

Midway was one of only 67 institutions to receive the Gold Standard honor. In total, 157 NAIA institutions earned the Five-Star recognition.

Each year, NAIA schools use the Champions of Character scorecard to measure the pursuit of character-driven athletics. Schools scoring a minimum of 60 out of 100 points earn the Champions of Character Five-Star Institution Award.

Institutions are measured on a demonstrated commitment to Champions of Character and earn 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.

There are three different levels that an NAIA institution can earn to be recognized as a Champions of Character Five-Star Institution. The gold level is the highest honor which requires 90-100 points, the silver level requires 75-89 points, and the bronze level requires 60-74 points.

Midway was joined by four other institutions from the River States Conference that also earned the honor.

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