Carroll College Named the NAIA’s First School of Character Award Winner
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) announced Carroll College (Mont.) as its inaugural School of Character Award winner.
“Carroll’s strategic vision and dedication to developing both accomplished student-athletes and civically engaged individuals distinguish them among the best in the association,” said NAIA President & CEO Jim Carr. “We are incredibly honored to name Carroll as the first winner of this prestigious award.”
The School of Character Award recognizes an 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® program.
As their motto states, “not for school, but for life,” Carroll embraces a rich tradition of preparing students for a lifetime of character-driven growth and community service. In their athletics department, this begins with a model of excellence and a dedication to fostering an environment where every team meaningfully contributes both on campus and in 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’s campus.
Lastly, to address food insecurity on campus, Carroll’s 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.
"This award is a powerful recognition of the commitment our student-athletes, coaches, and staff have made to character-driven athletics,” said Carroll President John Cech. “Being recognized as the inaugural recipient of this prestigious honor from the NAIA reflects the heart of who we are—a community striving to uplift one another, serve others, and lead with purpose. I couldn’t be prouder of our student-athletes, along with our dedicated faculty, staff, and coaches, for truly exemplifying what it means to be Champions of Character.”
Carroll was presented with the School of Character Award at an on-campus pep assembly in the PE Center on Tuesday, September 17. The assembly was attended by campus and community leaders, including the Montana Governor, Greg Gianforte, and Helena Mayor, Wilmot Collins.
