OCU Gold Champions of Character
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has named Oakland City University a 2023-2024 GOLD Champions of Character Five-Star institution.
The NAIA's Champions of Character mission is to provide training to instill the values that build character so students, coaches, and parents know, do, and value the right on and off the field.
Each year, NAIA schools use the Champions of Character core report to measure the pursuit of character-driven athletics. To obtain such a distinction, a college or university must exemplify an exceptional commitment to fostering character development among student-athletes. This award recognizes institutions that not only meet the rigorous standards of a 5-Star Institution but also demonstrate outstanding dedication to embracing the five core values of the NAIA Champions of Character program. Those five core values go well beyond the playing field to the daily decisions of the youth. These character values help young people and those associated with their development to make good choices in all aspects of their lives and reflect the true spirit of competition.
The five Core Values are:
- Integrity – To know and do what is right.
- Respect – Treat others the way you want to be treated.
- Responsibility – Embrace opportunities to contribute.
- Sportsmanship – Bring your best to all competitions.
- Servant Leadership – Serve the common good.
The program helps participants find balance by keeping the five core values at the heart of their athletics experience.
Oakland City University was recognized as a GOLD-level recipient. Two hundred nine NAIA institutions achieved gold, silver, or bronze status.