CSM named Champions of Character Five-Star Institution

College of Saint Mary was recognized Thursday as a National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Champions of Character Five-Star Institution.

It is the sixth consecutive year that CSM has been named a Champions of Character Institution and the first year CSM has been named to the Silver level.

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 earn 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.

The Champions of Character program continues to grow and impact people throughout the nation as a result of the passion and commitment of NAIA members. During the 2013-14 school year the NAIA implemented adding Bronze, Silver and Gold levels to the award. That year CSM earned Bronze status.

This year 29 institutions were named Gold level, 68 institutions earned Silver and 72 got Bronze level. The Great Plains Athletic Conference, which CSM competes in this year, was also one of 20 conferences to earn the Five-Star Conference Award. Eight of the 12 institutions competing in the GPAC this year earned the recognition.