KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Friends University Athletics department has achieved the prestigious 2025-26 NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Gold award, the national office has announced.  Gold is the highest level that can be attained, as the five-star tiers are Gold, Silver and Bronze. The Falcons recorded the maximum 100 points on the Champions of Character scorecard.

Additionally, the KCAC was named a Champions of Character Five-Star conference for the 2025-26 season.

According to the NAIA, institutions are measured on a demonstrated commitment to Champions of Character and earn points in character training, conduct in competition, academic focus, character recognition and character promotion. Institutions earned points based on exceptional student-athlete grade point averages and by having minimal to no ejections during competition throughout the course of the academic year.

"Being named an NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Institution is a powerful reflection of our campus culture," said Kate Jones, Friends University powerlifting head coach and NAIA Champions of Character liaison. "This recognition belongs to our student-athletes, coaches, and staff who intentionally live out integrity, respect, responsibility, and sportsmanship every single day—both in the classroom and in competition. We are deeply proud to continue to foster an environment where character-driven leadership comes first."

Official NAIA Five-Star award winner release