July 31, 2025 | Grayson, Ky. — Kentucky Christian University (KCU) is proud to announce its designation as a Five-Star Institution by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) for the 2024-25 academic year. This distinguished recognition highlights KCU’s steadfast commitment to the Champions of Character® program and its core values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership.
The NAIA’s Five-Star Institution Award is based on a comprehensive evaluation of each school’s dedication to character training, academic excellence, sportsmanship in competition, and intentional character recognition and promotion across athletic programs.
KCU earned this prestigious honor by:
Posting outstanding student-athlete grade point averages
Maintaining minimal to zero ejections during competition
Consistently integrating character education across athletic and campus life
“To be recognized as a Five-Star Institution by the NAIA is a testament to the character and discipline of our student-athletes, coaches, and support staff,” said David Manning, Vice President of Intercollegiate athletics at KCU. “At Kentucky Christian, we believe who you are off the field matters just as much as who you are on it—and this award affirms that belief.”
To receive the Five-Star distinction, institutions must score at least 60 out of 100 points on the NAIA’s Champions of Character scorecard. This year, 210 institutions across the country met or exceeded that benchmark.
The Five-Star Conference Award criteria also require conferences to form a Champions of Character Committee and a Conduct in Competition Oversight Committee, with at least 60% of member schools earning Five-Star Institution status.
KCU’s recognition affirms the university’s holistic approach to intercollegiate athletics—cultivating not only competitive excellence but also strong moral character and academic integrity.
To view the full list of Five-Star institutions and access downloadable graphics, visit the official NAIA Champions of Character page:
https://www.naia.org/champions-of-character/five-star-winners-2025
