OVERLAND PARK – The NAIA School of Character Award recognizes an institution that demonstrates an outstanding commitment to the Champions of Character core values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership through its athletic department, campus community, and student-athletes.

The Heart of America Athletic Conference has announced that Benedictine College is the Heart's nominee for the School of Character Award for their commitment to the Champions of Character program and its core values.

"I would like to congratulate our student-athletes, coaches and staff on receiving this award," said Benedictine Athletic Director Charlie Gartenmayer. "Being a Champion of Character is an important characteristic of being a Raven and the program ties into the Mission of our department and Benedictine College. We would like to thank the selection committee for the chance to represent the Heart as the conference nominee for the School of Character Award."

Benedictine College has distinguished itself through a campus-wide commitment to developing student-athletes who embody integrity, respect, responsibility, servant leadership, and sportsmanship. Through the leadership of its administrators, coaches, and student-athletes, Benedictine has built a culture where character is not simply encouraged, it is intentionally lived every day. 

That commitment extends far beyond competition and is woven throughout the institution's mission. From campus leadership to athletic programs, Benedictine emphasizes representing the college with humility, professionalism, and respect while fostering an environment where student-athletes are challenged to lead with character in every aspect of campus life. 

Benedictine student-athletes regularly demonstrate those values through meaningful service and leadership within the Atchison community. They volunteer with local schools through High Five Fridays, spend time with residents at area nursing homes, assist families and organizations through community service projects, and respond whenever opportunities arise to serve others. Whether supporting campus initiatives or meeting community needs, Ravens student-athletes consistently place service above self. 

This commitment to character is reflected throughout the athletic department, where coaches intentionally develop leaders who compete with integrity, respect opponents, and embrace responsibility on and off the field. Through a culture rooted in faith, service, and leadership, Benedictine College continues to exemplify the mission of the NAIA Champions of Character program, demonstrating that athletics serves as a platform for developing exceptional people as well as successful competitors. 

As the Heart of America Athletic Conference recipient, Benedictine College will represent the conference as its nominee for the corresponding NAIA national award, with national recipients to be announced by the NAIA at a later date.

www.ravenathletics.com | #UnleashGreatness | www.benedictine.edu
#TheHeartWaytoPlay