PNC Athletics Named "Champions of Character"

Westville – Purdue University North Central is among the 199 colleges and universities named Champions of Character institutions for the 2007-08 academic year by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).

The number of member institutions recognized shows a 20% increase from 2006-07 when 130 institutions qualified out of approximately 290 NAIA members. These institutions share the NAIA commitment to high standards and the principle that participation in athletics serves as an integral part of the total education process.

The mission of Champions of Character is to restore character values and raise a generation of students who understand and demonstrate in everyday decisions respect, responsibility, integrity, servant leadership and sportsmanship.

To be considered a Champions of Character institution, schools must prove to the NAIA how the campus incorporates the Champions of Character program in five areas - athletic contests, public service projects, established policies related to behavior in practice and game situations, athletic and academic environment and character education. The program is dedicated to the principle that character is a choice and that being a champion is not just about winning, but consistently making good decisions in life.

In representing the five core values off the field, the PNC student-athletes have participated in charitable events in the community. Recent activities included ringing the bell for the Salvation Army, helping Opportunity Enterprises, assisting in holiday parties for needy families, reading to grade school students, offering free sports camps and clinics, raising money for individuals and families in needs and assisting with a variety of campus activities and events.

Rob Haworth, NAIA vice president for Champions of Character, noted, “Champions of Character has a profound impact on student-athletes, coaches and the communities the NAIA and member institutions serve. I am delighted to see an increase in the number of schools using the program to teach character. Champions of Character uses the power of sport to teach lessons for life. I applaud these institutions for their commitment to advance character-driven intercollegiate athletics.”

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