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NAIA School of Character

When we play the right way, everyone rises. That’s why at the NAIA, we develop student-athletes who are prepared for life, not just the next game. The NAIA’s Champions of Character^® program centers on preparing student-athletes for success in athletics and life by embedding five core values —integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership—into every aspect of the student-athlete experience. In 2024, the NAIA established the School of Character Award to recognize and celebrate institutions that consistently go above and beyond in embodying and teaching these five core values to student-athletes.

This year, we are proud to recognize Bushnell University (Ore.) as the recipient of the 2024-25 School of Character Award.

Guided by the mission of fostering wisdom, faith, and service, Bushnell University is devoted to cultivating graduates who live with intention and lead with purpose. In the athletics department, this begins with their “tri-athlete” philosophy, which supports student-athletes in pursuing growth in competition, the classroom, and character.

This commitment kicks off each year with their annual Champions of Character^® barbecue, an event focused on building community among student-athletes, deepening understanding of the NAIA’s five core values, and commencing the athletics department’s community engagement efforts. During the 2024-25 academic year, Bushnell student-athletes collectively contributed over 6,600 hours of service, averaging more than 20 hours per student-athlete.

In every respect, Bushnell University exemplifies what it means to be an NAIA School of Character. Their dedication to the Champions of Character^® five core values is not just expressed in ideals, but in daily habits, team standards, and life practices that prepare students to become purposeful graduates.