Kansas City, Mo. – The NAIA is excited to announce the 2026 National Awards Day winners, honoring student-athletes, athletics personnel, and sports teams from across the association. The winners are celebrated for their dedication, exemplary character, and extraordinary accomplishments both on and off the field.
| Carmen Wynn-Parks | Athlete | Wayland Baptist University | Basketball |
| Connor Niles | Athlete | Morningside University | Football |
| Trent Solsma | Athlete | Morningside University | Football |
| Candace Moats | Coach | Indiana Wesleyan University | Coach |
| Chris MacDonald | Coach | University of British Columbia | Coach |
| Cindy Potter | Meritorious Service | Columbia College | AD |
| Larry Bos | Meritorious Service | Cornerstone University | FAR |
NAIA Scholar Team recipients were also announced, with Morningside University (Iowa) leading all NAIA institutions with 26 recipients. Women’s volleyball is the top sport with 161 recipients.
“The NAIA is proud to celebrate the exceptional individuals being recognized as 2026 National Award Day winners,” said Jim Carr, NAIA President and CEO. “These honorees represent the very best of NAIA athletics. Through their commitment to excellence in competition, and the character, leadership, and dedication they have brought to their teams, institutions, and communities.”
The winner of the School of Character award will be announced later today.
See the full list of the NAIA’s 2026 National Awards Day winners here.
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