Columbia, MO – Stephens College Athletics has been recognized by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) as a 2025-26 Champions of Character® Gold Five-Star Institution, earning the highest level of recognition with a perfect score.
The NAIA announced that 203 member institutions received the Champions of Character® Five-Star Institution Award for the 2025-26 academic year. The award recognizes institutions that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to the Champions of Character® initiative through excellence in character training, conduct in competition, academic focus, character recognition, and character promotion.
Institutions are evaluated on their commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the field while also earning points for outstanding academic achievement and maintaining minimal to no ejections throughout the academic year.
Stephens College's recognition reflects the department's dedication to fostering a culture built on the NAIA's five core values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership.
"What a great group of coaches we have assembled," said Vice President of Athletics Betty Villalobos. "Their leadership, mentorship, and positive influence on our student-athletes are what continue to propel our athletic department to success. This achievement is a direct reflection of the culture they create every day. I want to congratulate each and every one of our coaches on this outstanding accomplishment and thank them for everything they do for Stephens College Athletics."
Receiving Gold-level recognition with a perfect score highlights Stephens College's commitment to providing a student-athlete experience that extends beyond athletic competition. Through a focus on academic excellence, sportsmanship, leadership development, and service, the department continues to prepare student-athletes for success both during and after their collegiate careers.
The Champions of Character® program serves as the NAIA's signature initiative to develop student-athletes who exemplify strong character both in competition and in their communities. Stephens College's perfect score reflects the department's continued commitment to creating an environment where success is measured not only by accomplishments in competition, but also by the lasting impact made on its student-athletes.
