National Awards Day - 2024 Winners
Honorees Announced for NAIA National Awards Day
Congratulations to the NAIA’s 2024 National Awards Day winners, which include student-athletes, athletics personnel, and sports teams from across the association. The honorees are celebrated for their hard work, exemplary character, and significant accomplishments both on and off the field. National Awards Day recognizes the newest NAIA Hall of Fame inductees, 18 individual and team awards, and the 2023-24 NAIA Scholar Team recipients.
2023-24 NAIA National Award Winners:
A.O. Duer Scholarship Award – Henri Stoeckermann, Kaitlyn McColly
Named in honor of the NAIA's former executive secretary, the A.O. Duer Scholarship Award recognizes one male and one female junior student-athlete who has excelled in scholarship, character, and citizenship.
Kaitlyn McColly is a standout member of the Dickinson State University (N.D.) track and field team. Specializing in the heptathlon and pentathlon, Kaitlyn’s tireless work ethic and dedication to excellence have made her a key contributor to the team’s success.
Kaitlyn captured two national championship titles in the outdoor heptathlon (2023) and indoor pentathlon (2024) while racking up an impressive array of accolades. Some of her achievements include being named a four-time NAIA All-American, earning the USTFCCA Regional Athlete of the Year honor for both indoor and outdoor track and field, and receiving the North Star Athletic Conference’s (NSAC) Most Valuable Athlete and Field Athlete of the Year titles. Additionally, Kaitlyn has been recognized as an NSAC All-Conference Performer in more than ten events and was selected to represent Team USA in the heptathlon at the 2023 World University Games in Chengdu, China.
Beyond her athletic achievements, Kaitlyn excels academically as a nursing major, maintaining a 4.0 GPA and earning USTFCCA and Daktronics Scholar-Athlete awards. As an undergraduate, Kaitlyn is already utilizing her degree by working as a licensed practical nurse, where she is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those in need.
Originally from Herrenberg, Germany, Henri Stoeckermann is a leading track and field athlete at Midland University (Neb.). As the school record holder in the indoor 800m, Henri has collected numerous impressive accolades, including three NAIA national championship qualifications, two CSC Academic All-District honors, and six All-GPAC Performer titles. While excelling on the track, Henri has also maintained a 4.0 GPA and earned the Daktronics Scholar-Athlete recognition three times.
Beyond athletics, Henri’s service-oriented nature has distinguished him as a prominent leader on Midland’s campus. Most notably, Henri spearheaded an initiative to collect bicycles, along with locks and helmets, for students without transportation. Furthermore, Henri utilizes his multi-lingual abilities to assist international students through his two work-study positions at the financial billing office and the on-campus writing lab.
Henri’s compassionate leadership and commitment to uplifting those around him have had a profound impact on the Midland community.
Emil S. Liston Award – Emily Till, Quentin Woodson
Named in honor of the NAIA's first executive secretary and the prime mover behind the men's basketball tournament, the Emil Liston Scholarship Award recognizes one junior men's and one junior women's basketball student-athlete who has shown high athletic and academic achievement.
Emily Till’s positivity and tireless work ethic have distinguished her as a rising star on Arizona Christian University’s women’s basketball team.
Majoring in behavioral health, Emily has excelled academically, maintaining a 4.0 GPA and earning the Daktronics Scholar-Athlete award. Emily is also deeply involved in campus life, participating in initiatives like the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and Young Life, a faith-based leadership organization. In both groups, Emily has quickly emerged as a leader, encouraging others to achieve their full potential.
On the court, Emily’s success is equally evident. Averaging nearly double-double in points (9.1 ppg) and rebounds (10.7rpg), Emily helped rally her team to an at-large NAIA national tournament berth. Additionally, Emily holds the school record for most rebounds in a single game.
Quentin Woodson’s intentional desire to impact and serve the communities around him has had a profound impact on the men’s basketball team, Mid-America Christian University (Okla.), and the broader Oklahoma City community.
Majoring in biology, Quentin has maintained a 3.92 GPA and earned several academic honors, including recognition as an NCCAA Scholar-Athlete, Sooner Athletic Conference Scholar-Athlete, and a two-time Daktronics Scholar-Athlete. Additionally, Quentin routinely volunteers more than 45 hours per semester with organizations dedicated to serving individuals battling cancer, like the Stephenson Cancer Center and In the Middle of a Miracle. On the basketball court, Quentin's community-oriented mindset helped lead his team to two NAIA national championship tournament appearances.
Quentin’s remarkable blend of academic excellence, community service, and athletic prowess has distinguished him as an esteemed leader on the court, in the classroom, and across Oklahoma City.
Dr. LeRoy Walker Champions of Character® Award – Sadie Hansen
Named in honor of the former NAIA and U.S. Olympic Committee president, the Dr. Leroy Walker Award recognizes outstanding student-athletes for their academics, athletics, leadership, and dedication to living the core values of Champions of Character®. This award was created in association with the National Sports Foundation.
Sadie Hansen is a dual-sport student-athlete competing in both volleyball and track and field at Valley City State University (N.D.). Majoring in elementary education, Sadie has demonstrated outstanding academic performance, maintaining a 3.94 GPA and earning the Daktronics Scholar-Athlete award four times.
On the court and field, Sadie’s dynamic leadership and determination persist. In volleyball, Sadie helped lead her team to its first national championship berth while also earning an NAIA All-American honor, spots on all-conference teams, and the North Star Athletic Association’s “2023 Setter of the Year” award. Sadie’s athletic achievements extend to track and field, where she was a 2024 national championship qualifier in the javelin throw and also received all-conference recognitions in two throwing events.
Sadie is a model student-athlete whose relentless pursuit of academic and athletic excellence positively influences all those around her.
NAIA-ATA Al Ortolani Athletic Training Scholarship – Drannon Lenox
Named in honor of the head athletic trainer at Pittsburg State University (1955-1995), the Al Ortolani Scholarship Award recognizes student-athletes pursuing an entry-level degree in athletic training.
Drannon Lenox is currently pursuing his master’s degree in athletic training at Sterling College (Kan.). Drannon approaches his studies with unparalleled diligence, constantly seeking opportunities to deepen his understanding of the field. In his first year, Drannon gained hands-on experience as an athletic training student at both Hutchinson High School and Sterling College. Most recently, he interned with the Indianapolis Colts as an athletic training intern.
Drannon earned his undergraduate degree at Bethel College (Kan.), where he played football. His experiences as an NAIA student-athlete, particularly his interactions with the team’s athletic trainer, inspired him to pursue a career in athletic training. He credits the team’s athletic trainer for helping him through two season-ending injuries and fostering a close-knit, supportive environment for athletes.
Drannon aspires to leverage his degree to create a similar positive impact, promoting both the physical and mental well-being of athletes.
2023-24 Administrators
NAIA Coach of Character Award – Luke Bentley
Recognizes a head coach who has been outstanding in embracing the five core values of the NAIA Champions of Character® initiative by deliberately teaching character to their student-athletes through sport.
Since its inception in 2018, William Penn University’s (Iowa) Coach Luke Bentley has been developing a men’s volleyball program that prioritizes excellence both on and off the court.
In alignment with the NAIA Champions of Character program, Coach Bentley embraces and promotes the NAIA’s five core values – integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership – in everything he does. On the team, this commitment is referred to as “wake.” Just as a boat leaves a wake of ripples in its path, Coach Bentley encourages every player to make positive impacts with their actions, leaving behind a lasting legacy. Coach Bentley’s “wake” philosophy has helped create a positive environment where players are held to the highest standard of conduct for themselves and their team.
Under Coach Bentley’s guidance, the men’s volleyball team has become nationally ranked, maintained above a 3.0 average GPA, and, most importantly, developed into character-driven individuals who positively impact their communities.
Athletics Director of the Year – Chris Kraftick
Recognizes an outstanding athletics administrator based on accomplishments during the previous year in the areas of athletics administration and service to the NAIA.
Since becoming the athletics director in 2016, Chris Kraftick has significantly enhanced the University of the Cumberlands’ (Ky.) athletic program, positioning it among the best in the nation. Under his vision for #OneBigTeam, Chris has fostered a culture where every individual—whether student-athlete, coach, or staff member—contributes significantly to the athletics program's success and growth.
In the 2023-24 academic year, Chris’ visionary leadership helped guide the Cumberlands toward record-breaking success. In total, 23 teams advanced to national championships, with three emerging as NAIA national championship title winners, including women’s soccer, men’s indoor track and field, and men’s outdoor track and field. Historic success continued in the classroom, where student-athletes posted the highest average GPA in Cumberland’s history (3.21) while also receiving a record number of academic all-conference honors (361) and Daktronics Scholar-Athletes awards (179). To top it off, Cumberlands collected their third Mid-South President’s Cup with the first-ever perfect score and were awarded the prestigious Learfield Directors Cup, setting the record for most points earned by an NAIA school.
Fueled by his forward-thinking leadership, Chris has not only elevated the success of the Cumberlands but also set a new standard for the future of intercollegiate athletics.
Charles Morris Administrator of the Year – Mickie Bush
Named in honor of the former NAIA Associate Executive Director, the Charles Morris Administrator of the Year recognizes administrators in all phases of NAIA athletic programs (ex., FARS, eligibility chairs, commissioners, sports chairs, etc.) on college campuses and/or administrators of affiliated conference/CAC (Independents)
Mickie Bush has been a fixture in the ever-changing landscape of NAIA rules compliance and eligibility for more than two decades. Serving as the eligibility chair for both the Cascade Collegiate Conference and the Frontier Conference, Mickie has been instrumental in guiding thousands of student-athletes through the eligibility process on their path to earning a degree.
Mickie’s commitment to the NAIA and unwavering support of student-athletes extends well beyond official duties. This dedication is exemplified by her continued service as eligibility chair, even after transitioning to a non-NAIA institution and, more recently, through her retirement.
Mickie’s extensive knowledge, compassion, and continued support for student-athlete success have had a profound impact on the Cascade Collegiate Conference, Frontier Conference, and the broader NAIA community.
Wally Schwartz Faculty Athletics Representative of the Year – Dr. James Zimmerman
Named in honor of the former NAIA vice-president of Legislative Services, the Wally Schwartz Faculty Athletics Representative of the Year Award recognizes a conference/CAC (Independents) and national Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) for their loyalty, enthusiasm, and honesty throughout the past year.
As the faculty athletic representative (FAR) for both the University of Saint Mary (Kan.) and the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC), Dr. James Zimmerman has demonstrated an unyielding commitment to enhancing the student-athlete experience.
Known for his compassionate leadership and dedication to expanding opportunities for student-athletes, Dr. Zimmerman has diligently worked to streamline processes across the NAIA. In just the past year, Dr. Zimmerman has served as the chair-elect of the KCAC Executive Committee and the chair of the NAIA Council of FARs while also being an active member of the National Coordinating Committee, KCAC Commissioner Hiring Committee, National Drug Testing Education Committee, NAIA Junior Varsity Taskforce, A.O. Duer Scholarship Award Selection Committee, and Emil S. Liston Award Selection Committee.
Dr. Zimmerman’s talent for balancing diverse perspectives and steadfast support for student-athletes and fellow FARs have solidified him as a leading figure within the NAIA.
Sports Information Director of the Year – Tommy Chasanoff
Recognizes an outstanding sports information director based on accomplishments during the previous year in the areas of sports information and service to the NAIA.
Since joining the University of the Cumberlands (Ky.) in 2016, Tommy Chasanoff has played a critical role in advancing the athletics department into one of the nation's premier programs.
As the assistant athletics director for sports information, Tommy’s leadership has been instrumental in significantly increasing Cumberlands’ visibility. Under Tommy’s guidance, the Patriots’ social media followers have nearly doubled, gaining more than 6,000 X (formerly Twitter) followers and 8,000 Instagram followers in just the past year. Additionally, Tommy’s efforts to remodel the athletic website and maximize website views resulted in a record-breaking 2.2M page views.
Tommy’s passion for highlighting student-athlete success has helped to garner local, state, and national recognition. Throughout the past year, Tommy has been at the helm of highlighting the Cumberlands’ impressive accomplishments, including three NAIA national championship titles, the Mid-South Conference’s President Cup, and the prestigious Learfield Sports Director’s Cup.
Clarence "Ike" Pearson SID Award – Donnie Smith
Named in honor of the former statistical crew chief of the NAIA Division I Men's Basketball National Championship, the Clarence "Ike" Pearson Award recognizes a member of the NAIA-Sports Information Directors Association (NAIA-SIDA) for their outstanding contributions to the profession.
Since joining Southeastern University (Fla.) in 2013, Donnie Smith has been a key proponent of advancing the interests of sports information directors across the industry.
Throughout his expansive career, Donnie has held numerous leadership positions within the NAIA, including president of the Sports Information Directors Association. Donnie’s significant contributions to the association and broader industry have earned him several distinct honors, including being named the NAIA Sports Information Director of the Year twice, Sun Conference Sports Information Director of the Year three times, College Sports Communicators Writing Contest District Honoree three times, and the 2023 College Sports Communicators’ Rising Star award winner.
His influence in the field goes well beyond his numerous accolades. Donnie has been a transformative figure, inspiring and mentoring many students, graduate assistants, and colleagues looking to advance their careers in communications.
Larry Lady Officiating Award – Randy Hagedorn
Named in honor of the former NAIA Assignor of Officials (basketball, football, and baseball), the Larry Lady Officiating Award recognizes an official of any NAIA sport.
Throughout his football officiating career with the NAIA, Randy Hagedorn has officiated a national championship, more than 20 playoff games, and has consistently been the GPAC's top choice for playoff referrals.
Both on and off the field, Randy exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding official. In a sometimes volatile environment, Randy approaches officiating with an empathic yet knowledgeable approach that makes him a trusted and respected officiant in the football community. His expertise, paired with clear and honest communication, ensures that every game is conducted with the efficiency and fairness that coaches and student-athletes rely on.
From the pre-game handshake until the game’s final whistle, Randy upholds the highest standards of officiating in the NAIA, setting a new benchmark for officiating performance across the association.
Athletic Trainer of the Year – Dr. Pete Manely
Recognizes an NATA-certified athletic trainer has distinguished themselves as a model of the profession of athletic training in personal conduct and professional allied health service to athletes.
As the director of athletic training at Sterling College (Kan.), Dr. Pete Manely has been a driving force in fostering positive change within the association.
In his role as the NAIA-Athletic Training Association President, Dr. Manely has participated in numerous NAIA councils and committees, including the National Advisory Council, Council of Student-Athletes, National Coordinating Committee, and the National Drug Testing Education Committee. Dr. Manely's contributions to these groups have been crucial in developing and approving several key initiatives, such as the mandatory day off policy and the updated NAIA National Championship Medical Handbook.
Dr. Manely’s passion for athletic training and innate ability to spearhead meaningful change have cemented him as one of the leading athletic trainers in the NAIA.
Female Trailblazer of the Year – Kathy Hinderliter
Recognizes an outstanding woman leader who exemplified outstanding support of women in athletics and their success.
Kathy Hinderliter has been a pivotal force in Ottawa University (Kan.) athletics for the past 30 years. As the assistant athletics director for compliance and operations, Kathy’s institutional knowledge and experience have propelled the institution through exponential growth and development.
With more than 30 varsity sports and nearly 100 athletics personnel, Kathy is the cornerstone of the athletics department, ensuring every task is completed efficiently and to the highest standard. Beyond her daily responsibilities, Kathy is consistently available to offer solutions, guidance, and mentorship to anyone who stops by her office.
Kathy’s steadfast commitment to the athletics department and the broader Braves community has been instrumental in the success of Ottawa University and thousands of student-athletes.
NAIA RISE Leader of the Year – Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes
Recognizes an outstanding leader in the NAIA based on accomplishments in the areas of Respect, Inclusivity, Support, and Education (RISE) initiatives and service to the NAIA.
Over the past 20 years, Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes has set a new standard of excellence for intercollegiate athletics. As the first African American woman commissioner of the NAIA, Dr. Barnes has played a pivotal role in shaping NAIA RISE initiatives across the association and industry. In her various roles, Dr. Barnes has used her visionary leadership to create an environment where everyone has the opportunity to participate, excel, and advance in their athletic, academic, and career pursuits.
Most recently, Dr. Barnes transitioned the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference to the HBCU Athletic Conference – a change that honors the legacy and importance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. At the conference “Where Winners Thrive,” Dr. Barnes has fostered an environment where individuals can fulfill their athletic and academic potential through the HBCU culture and experience.
Dr. Barnes’ unwavering dedication to NAIA RISE has not only transformed the landscape of intercollegiate athletics but has inspired the next generation of character-driven leaders.
School of Character Award – Carroll College (Mont.)
Recognizes an NAIA institution that exemplifies exceptional commitment to fostering character development among their student-athletes and embracing the five core values of the NAIA Champions of Character® initiative.
Just as their motto states, "not for school, but for life," Carroll College (Mont.) embraces a rich tradition of preparing students for a lifetime of character-driven growth and community service.
In the athletics department, this begins with their model of excellence and the expectation that all Fighting Saints will: 1) lead with passion, courage, and integrity; 2) demonstrate a commitment to the team, a spirit of service above self, and respect for themselves and others; 3) excel as champions in the classroom, community, and competition. This model has established a foundation for success while fostering a culture where every team meaningfully contributes to both Carroll College and the wider Helena community.
In practice, this is demonstrated through numerous initiatives across the athletics department.
On the men's football team, players participate in and lead "Coaching Boys into Men" programming, which teaches healthy relationship skills, mental health practices, and violence prevention methods.
On the women's basketball team, players not only coach a Special Olympics team but also facilitate a work program for a Special Olympics participant, equipping them with career skills and integrating them as a valued member of the team.
On the women's soccer team, players partnered with local nonprofits to provide sanitary products to individuals in need while also spearheading an on-campus initiative to provide supplies in restrooms across Carroll College's campus.
Lastly, to address food insecurity on campus, the Carroll College Association for Student-Athletes collectively worked to establish the campus? first-ever food pantry, where students, faculty, and staff are welcome to take items at no cost.
These examples highlight only a few of the impactful contributions made by Carroll College's athletics department.
Carroll College's strategic vision and dedication to developing both accomplished student-athletes and civically engaged individuals distinguish them as the inaugural recipient of the School of Character award.
2023-24 NAIA Hall of Fame Inductees
The Hall of Fame Award is the highest honor presented by the association. Nominees must be of outstanding quality, high moral character, and fine leadership ability and must be held in high esteem by their colleagues, former coaches, and former athletes.
Hall of Fame – Dr. Cliff Hamlow, Meritorious Service
Dr. Cliff Hamlow’s illustrious career began during his junior year at Azusa Pacific University (Calif.) when he was named the head men’s basketball coach in 1954. This was followed by a 58-year career in intercollegiate athletics, including 32 years as head men’s basketball coach, 35 years as athletics director, and 21 years as the Golden State Athletic Conference (GSAC) commissioner.
At the helm of Azusa Pacific’s men’s basketball program, Dr. Hamlow led his team to 16 20-win seasons, including its first NAIA National Tournament appearance. Dr. Hamlow was named the NAIA District Three Coach of the Year twice (1974, 1980) and was inducted as a Coach in the NAIA Hall of Fame in 1981.
As athletics director, Dr. Hamlow expanded Azusa Pacific’s athletic offerings by adding 15 new sports, including cross country, football, baseball, women’s basketball, women’s volleyball, and track & field. By the time he left in 1993, Azusa Pacific had captured ten NAIA national championship titles.
In 1991, Dr. Hamlow became the GSAC commissioner, a position that he held until his retirement in 2012. During that time, he served on numerous committees, including the National Executive Committee, Conduct and Ethics Committee, District Chairs Committee, National Administrative Committee, and most notably, the Character Committee. As a member of the Character Committee, Dr. Hamlow was a leading voice in developing the NAIA Champions of Character initiative. In 2003, Dr. Hamlow was awarded the NAIA Charles Morris Administrator of the Year for his work as commissioner.
Dr. Hamlow held many titles throughout his 58-year career with the NAIA, but none are more fitting than “Coach.” Dr. Hamlow was a coach not only to his student-athletes but also to fellow athletics directors, commissioners, and NAIA National Office staff. Dr. Hamlow’s commitment to making a difference in the lives of others has had a lasting legacy on the NAIA and its members.
Hall of Fame – Denny Grubb, Meritorious Service
In 1977, Denny Grub began serving Lewis-Clark State College (Idaho) as a volunteer historian and statistician, covering more than 2,500 Warrior home athletic events and establishing all of Lewis-Clark State’s official record books. When the NAIA Baseball World Series moved to Lewis-Clark State in 1984, Denny volunteered to be the official statistician of the games, a title he still holds today.
Since 1984, Denny has recorded statistics for nearly 600 NAIA World Series games, and in the process, he created the official record book for the NAIA World Series. Denny spent hundreds of hours reviewing microfilm and newspaper archives to ensure no details were excluded. The official records include information as specific as “the last time a team won with just one hit” or “the last time a team pulled off a triple steal.”
It's important to note that Denny has never been officially employed by the NAIA or Lewis-Clark State. His contributions have been purely voluntary, and in some cases, he has utilized personal vacation days to provide services at NAIA games.
Denny was inducted into the Lewis-Clark State Hall of Fame in 2013 as their first “Special Contributor,” and the Lewis-Clark State press box is now named in honor of him and his contributions to the school.
No individual has had a greater impact on athletic statistics and historical bookkeeping than Denny. His selfless commitment to preserving NAIA records has ensured that decades of history remain intact.
Hall of Fame – Rob Miller, Meritorious Service
Rob Miller’s esteemed career with the NAIA spans more than 30 years, during which time he served as a conference commissioner and was a pivotal member of the NAIA National Office staff.
After graduating from Spring Arbor University (Mich.) in 1986, Rob began his career in athletics, joining Spring Arbor as their athletic facility director, sports information director, and assistant basketball coach. While obtaining his master's degree at Michigan State University, Rob was appointed the first part-time commissioner of the newly formed Wolverine Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC), serving from 1992 to 1997. In 1995, Rob transitioned to the NCCAA to serve as their director of development and eventual executive director before returning to the NAIA in 2000, this time at the national office.
Rob joined the NAIA National Office to spearhead the creation of Champions of Character®, an initiative where student-athletes are encouraged to find balance by keeping five core values – integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership – at the heart of their athletics experience. Under Rob’s guidance, the Champions of Character initiative quickly became a cornerstone of the NAIA, shaping a new era of intercollegiate athletics focused on instilling values and building character.
In 2008, Rob left the national office to become a partner and presenter with Proactive Coaching and be the first full-time commissioner of the Sun Conference. Rob worked with the Sun Conference until returning to WHAC in 2011. As the WHAC commissioner, Rob was awarded the Charles Morris Administrator of the Year honor for increasing WHAC membership, sports offerings, championship events, and membership involvement. Rob was the WHAC commissioner until 2022.
Today, Rob continues to work with the NAIA on membership recruitment and retention efforts. Rob’s ongoing contributions have left a lasting impression on the landscape of intercollegiate athletics and serve as inspiration to all who aspire to lead with integrity and purpose.
Hall of Fame – Allan Ayala, Athlete
Originally from Guatemala, Allan Ayala was a dominant force in NAIA track and field during his expansive career at Dickinson State University (N.D.).
Allan’s accolades include 12 All-American honors and seven NAIA national championship titles in the 400m hurdles and 4x400m relay. Allan was also named Dakota Athletic Conference’s “Outstanding Track Performer” four times and honored as the conference’s “Outstanding Senior” of 2010.
Remarkably, Allan only lost the 400m hurdles twice during his collegiate career, solidifying his status as one of the most dominant hurdlers in NAIA history. Today, Allan still holds school records in the 400m hurdles, 4x400m outdoor relay, and 4x400m indoor relay, in addition to a Guatemalan national record in the 400m hurdles.
Following his standout career at Dickinson State University, Allan spent four years representing Guatemala at international track and field competitions. Allan retired in 2014 and became a coach, advocate, and interpreter, helping advance track and field initiatives throughout Guatemala and across the globe.
Hall of Fame – Justin Schlecht, Athlete
With a 140-22 overall record, including 69 pins, Justin Schlecht’s wrestling career at Dickinson State University (N.D.) was defined by remarkable success and an unrelenting commitment to the sport.
After finishing third at his first NAIA national championship in 2005, Justin won three consecutive national championship titles from 2006 to 2008 in the 197-lb weight class. Justin’s 17-1 record at these championships helped propel his team to three top five finishes. In recognition of these achievements, Justin received the 2008 NAIA Outstanding Wrestler of the Year award and was named the National Wrestling Coaches Association’s NAIA Wrestler of the Year in both 2006 and 2007.
Today, Justin remains at the forefront of the sport as the head men’s wrestling coach at Dickinson State.
Hall of Fame – Sam Atkin, Athlete
Originally from Lincolnshire, England, Sam Atkin is the most decorated runner in Lewis-Clark State College (Idaho) history.
From 2011 to 2016, Sam was a prominent competitor in NAIA cross country and track and field, securing four national championship titles - two in the indoor 3,000 meters and two in the outdoor 5,000 meters. Sam was selected as a Frontier Conference Cross Country Athlete of the Week seven times and an NAIA National Runner of the Week multiple times. Additionally, Sam was a 10-time NAIA All-American and was selected as the USTFCCA NAIA Outdoor Track Athlete of the Year in 2016.
Sam's achievements are still honored at Lewis-Clark State, where he continues to hold records in the 8K cross country, indoor 3,000 meters, outdoor 5,000 meters, outdoor 10,000 meters, and indoor distance medley relay.
Following his remarkable collegiate career, Sam started running professionally as a PUMA athlete, representing Great Britain at international competitions. Most notably, Sam competed at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics in the 10,000 meters and the 2024 Paris Olympics in the 5,000 meters.
Hall of Fame – Sharla Harrison Rich, Athlete
Sharla Harrison Rich’s storied basketball career at Wayland Baptist University (Texas) was marked by record-breaking success and a commitment to elevating the game.
From 1985 to 1989, Sharla helped lead the Flying Queens to four straight NAIA national tournament appearances. Along the way, Sharla racked up numerous achievements herself, including earning spots on the American Sports Federation All-American Freshman Team (1986), NAIA All-American Second Team (1987), and NAIA All-American First Team (1988, 1989). Additionally, Sharla was awarded NAIA District Eight Newcomer of the Year (1986), American Women’s Sports Federation All-American (1987, 1988, 1989), Kodak All-American (1988, 1989), NAIA Scholar-Athlete (1988, 1989), NAIA All-District and Academic All-District (1987, 1988, 1989), NAIA District Eight Player of the Year (1988), and the NAIA Emil S. Liston Award (1988).
Sharla’s legacy endures at Wayland Baptist, where she continues to hold school records for career scoring (2,461), career rebounds (1,230), career field goals (1,070), most points in one game (49), most field goals in one game (20), and best field goal percentage for a season (.661) and career (.624). Today, Sharla resides with her family in Sudan, Texas, and serves as the Director of Customer Support Operations at Abbott Laboratories.
Hall of Fame – Bobby Halford, Coach
After graduating from William Carey University (Miss.) in 1976, Coach Bobby Halford returned to the institution as an assistant baseball coach and the first head coach of the women’s basketball team. Nearly 48 years later, Coach Halford remains a dedicated member of the William Carey coaching staff.
Throughout his tenure at William Carey, Coach Halford has held numerous roles, including athletic director, head coach, and assistant coach. Most notably, Coach Halford has been at the helm of William Carey’s baseball team for the past 38 years. With more than 1,337 game wins, Coach Halford has guided the Crusaders through 17 regional tournaments, nine opening rounds, and three NAIA World Series appearances. Additionally, more than 40 of Coach Halford’s former baseball players (and three former women’s basketball players) went on to play professionally.
Coach Halford was named the NAIA’s Baseball Coach of the Year in 2017 and was inducted into William Carey’s Sports Hall of Fame in 2015.
Hall of Fame – Brian Orr, Coach
With a 538-176 record, Coach Brian Orr is the winningest coach in Lewis-Clark State College (Idaho) women’s basketball history. Over his 22-year tenure, Coach Orr led the Warriors to five Frontier Conference regular season titles, seven Frontier Conference tournament titles, and 19 NAIA national tournament appearances, including four quarterfinals, one semifinal, and one national championship game.
Under Coach Orr’s guidance, the Warriors were selected as an NAIA Scholar Team 13 times and had a collective average GPA that exceeded 3.30. Among his players, 64 were chosen as Daktronics Scholar-Athletes, and nine were named CoSIDA Academic All-District honorees.
Coach Orr’s commitment to athletic and academic success earned him the Conference Coach of the Year award six times.
The Hall of Fame inductees will be recognized throughout the year at their respective NAIA National Championships, national coaches’ association meetings or at the NAIA National Convention. More detailed information about each inductee will be released prior to these ceremonies. View the complete list of NAIA Hall of Famers.
Conference Commissioners Association Champions of Character® Team Award
The Conference Commissioners Association (CCA) Champions of Character Team Award is given annually to one men’s and one women’s team for their exemplary character on the field, on campus, and in the community.
Men's Team: Benedictine (Kan.) Baseball
In December 2023, 44 members of Benedictine College’s (Kan.) baseball team embarked on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic. The team donated more than 10,000 items, including medical kits, clothing, educational items, sports equipment, and two laptops, to areas in need. The team also engaged with the local community by visiting an orphanage, painting houses, and hosting a free youth sports camp for 125 children.
Women's Team: Northwest (Wash.) Women's Volleyball
In the spring of 2024, Northwest University’s (Wash.) women’s volleyball team traveled to Mexico to volunteer with Yucatan Helping Hands, a Christian ministry working to bring transformational and sustainable change to local communities. During their trip, the women’s volleyball team helped construct a water plant designed to provide a sustainable supply of clean water to the surrounding Chalmuch community. Beyond their construction efforts, the team also organized and led a youth sports camp focused on creating community and developing the skills needed for volleyball.