SUNO Athletics Named NAIA Champions of Character Gold Five-Star Institution for Second Consecutive Year

NEW ORLEANS [July 28, 2025] — Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO) Athletics has once again been recognized as a Gold Five-Star Institution by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) as part of the 2023-24 Champions of Character® program. This marks the second consecutive year that SUNO has received this prestigious honor, reflecting the university's unwavering commitment to character-driven athletics.

Announced Monday by the NAIA, the Champions of Character Five-Star Awards recognize institutions that demonstrate exceptional dedication to the program's five core values: Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Sportsmanship, and Servant Leadership. Gold is the highest level of recognition within the program and is reserved for institutions that meet rigorous standards across academic success, character education, and conduct in competition.

"Our repeat Gold Five-Star recognition is a testament to the values SUNO Athletics lives by," said James A. Matthews, III, SUNO Director of Athletics. "This honor reflects the intentional work of our coaches, student-athletes, and staff in fostering a culture rooted in character, leadership, and excellence in all aspects of life – from competition to community to character development. It means everything to know we are developing more than just competitors—we're developing leaders."

The NAIA Champions of Character program is a national initiative aimed at transforming the culture of sport by equipping student-athletes, coaches, and parents with tools to promote good character and ethical behavior. SUNO proudly integrates this initiative into every facet of its athletic programs—through service learning, mentorship, community outreach, and leadership development.

Research shows that student-athletes who are part of character-focused programs like this experience growth in social responsibility, emotional maturity, and team unity. 

SUNO's continued investment in this initiative highlights its broader mission to build champions in the classroom, in competition, and in the community.

At SUNO, success is not only defined by wins and titles, but by the values that shape future leaders. The Knights remain steadfast in their commitment to promoting a positive and principled athletic environment for all.

To learn more about the NAIA Champions of Character program, visit: naia.org/champions-of-character

For more information about SUNO Athletics, visit sunoathletics.com.

-SUNOKNIGHTLIFE-

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