Bellevue University Earns NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Award
Bellevue University earned NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Gold status for the 2024-2025 academic year. The NAIA recognized 210 institutions at the Gold level based on commitment to character training, conduct, academics, and promotion of core values.
Key Facts
- Bellevue University earned NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Gold status for 2024-2025
- NAIA recognized 210 institutions at the Gold level
- Evaluation areas include character training, conduct in competition, academic focus, character recognition, and character promotion
- Points reflect student-athlete GPA performance and low ejection rates
- BU held membership in NSAA and CAC during 2024-25 and joined the Frontier Conference on July 1, 2025
- BU maintains CAC affiliation in soccer and competes in the Heart of America Athletic Conference in esports
- NAIA recognizes Gold, Silver, and Bronze levels
NAIA Recognizes Institutional Commitment
Bellevue University earned NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Gold status, as announced by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics. The NAIA evaluated institutions based on commitment to Champions of Character through training, conduct, academics, recognition, and promotion.
The NAIA awarded 210 institutions Five-Star Gold status for 2024-2025. The association assigned points based on student-athlete grade-point averages and ejection data across the academic year. All four conferences connected to BU — North Star Athletic Association, Continental Athletic Conference, Frontier Conference, and Heart of America Athletic Conference — also earned Five-Star Conference recognition.
Conference Membership and Program Structure
Bellevue competed as a full member of the North Star Athletic Association during the 2024-25 academic year. The university held affiliate membership in the Continental Athletic Conference for men’s and women’s soccer. BU became a full member of the Frontier Conference on July 1, 2025, while continuing CAC affiliation in soccer and Heart of America Athletic Conference membership in esports.
The NAIA Champions of Character program provides training to build values for students, coaches, and parents. The program centers on integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership in athletics participation.
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with more than 70,000 graduates worldwide. The University is a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, while making college affordable. Routinely ranked among the nation’s top military and accessible institutions, the University serves residential students at its main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, and everywhere online with more than 85 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).