Defiance College named NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Institution for 2024-25

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Defiance College has been recognized as a NAIA Champions of Character® Five-Star Award winner, earning Gold Level status with a perfect score, as announced Monday by the NAIA national office.

This prestigious honor marks a standout achievement in DC's first year back in the NAIA, placing the college among 133 Gold Level institutions and 113 with a perfect score. A total of 210 member colleges and universities earned Five-Star status across Gold, Silver, and Bronze tiers.

"As we considered returning to the NAIA, one of the often-cited reasons was its Champions of Character initiative," said Defiance College President Dr. Richanne C. Mankey. "Developing students to be prepared professionals, civic stewards, and community leaders is an integral part of a DC education. Earning this award with a perfect score is a direct reflection of how deeply our mission aligns with NAIA's values—and a sign that we are living out that commitment."

"We are honored to be recognized as a Five-Star Gold Level Institution by the NAIA," said Defiance College Athletic Director Tiffani Selhorst. "This is an award that reflects our daily choice to be committed to integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership. I am very proud of our student-athletes and coaches who continue to positively represent Defiance College within our community and throughout the region."

Institutions are evaluated annually based on their demonstrated support of the Champions of Character® initiative, including character training, student conduct, academic focus, recognition of character, and promotion of character across campus and competition. Additional points are awarded for high team GPAs and minimal to no ejections during the athletic season.

Adding to the distinction, the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference, of which Defiance is a member, was also named a Five-Star Conference—one of only 21 conferences nationwide to earn the designation. This recognition reflects a broad commitment among member institutions to uphold NAIA's core character values.

The full list of 2024-25 NAIA Champions of Character® Five-Star Award winners can be viewed here.

-JACKETS-