GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — At Aquinas, success is more than a moment—it's a movement powered by purpose, pride, and people. From the court to the classroom, Aquinas continues to turn heads and set the standard in the NAIA. So as the saying goes.., It's yet another great day to be a Saint!
Aquinas College has once again been named an NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Institution for the 2024-25 academic year, earning a perfect score of 100 points and Gold-level status. The Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC), of which Aquinas is a proud member, was also honored as a Five-Star Conference, reinforcing the league's collective commitment to character-driven athletics.
The NAIA Champions of Character® program recognizes institutions that embody the five core values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership. These values are woven into every aspect of the student-athlete experience—from practices and competitions to academic life and community involvement.
Aquinas was one of just 210 NAIA institutions nationwide to earn this elite distinction. The recognition is based on results from the NAIA's Champions of Character Scorecard, which evaluates schools on their efforts in character training, conduct in competition, academic focus, character recognition, and character promotion. Institutions receive additional points for exceptional student-athlete GPA averages and a clean competition record—factors Aquinas continues to prioritize year after year.
"Being recognized once again as an NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Institution is a tremendous honor and a direct reflection of the culture we've built here at Aquinas," said Connor Leppink, Deputy Athletic Director. "Our student-athletes, coaches, and staff consistently strive to live out the core values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership. This award reaffirms our commitment to developing champions not just in competition, but in the classroom, on campus, and in the community."
That message of holistic development is echoed throughout campus, especially by academic leadership.
"At Aquinas College, we believe that education is about developing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit," said Terry Keller, Ph.D., Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. "Earning the NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Institution Award affirms that our student-athletes are not only excelling in their sport and studies, but also embracing the values that define true leadership and citizenship."
For Ashley Kaman, Assistant Athletic Director and Head Coach of the nationally ranked Aquinas Dance team, the recognition hits home in multiple ways.
"As both a coach and an administrator, it's incredibly exciting to see Aquinas honored as a Champions of Character Five-Star Institution," she said. "This award speaks volumes about who we are—not just as competitors, but as people. Our student-athletes are dedicated to living out the values of respect, integrity, and leadership every day, and it's inspiring to see that commitment recognized on a national level."
Interim Athletic Director and Head Men's Basketball Coach Ryan Bertoia summed it up best:
"There's a deep sense of pride that comes with being named a Champions of Character Five-Star Institution. At Aquinas, we hold ourselves to a high standard—on the court, in the classroom, and in how we carry ourselves as Saints. This recognition is a testament to the culture we've built and the values we live by every day. It's an honor that reflects not just our athletic department, but the entire Aquinas community."
The honor not only recognizes Aquinas' strong foundation, but also reinforces the college's ongoing mission to develop students who lead lives of leadership and service. With a perfect score, a shared conference commitment, and a campus-wide belief in character as the cornerstone of excellence, Aquinas College continues to set the standard in the NAIA.
This recognition is just the latest in a long list of accomplishments for Aquinas College. From championship runs and record-breaking performances to academic honors and impactful service initiatives, Saints student-athletes continue to raise the bar in every arena they enter. Whether they're wearing the maroon and white on the field, hitting the books in the classroom, or making a difference in the Grand Rapids community, Aquinas athletes are living proof that character and excellence go hand in hand. The future is bright—and the Saints are just getting started.
