College of the Ozarks Earns NAIA Gold-Level Champions of Character® Award for 2024–25

POINT LOOKOUT, MO. — College of the Ozarks has been named a Gold-Level Champions of Character Five-Star Award winner by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) for the 2024–25 academic year, recognizing the institution’s unwavering commitment to character-driven athletics and student development.
 
The Champions of Character program honors NAIA member institutions that exemplify five core values: integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership. Schools earn points based on their demonstration of these values, academic performance of student-athletes, and sportsmanship metrics such as low ejection rates. College of the Ozarks achieved the highest distinction — gold level — among 210 honored institutions nationwide.
 
“This recognition means a great deal to our program,” said Athletic Director and Men’s Basketball Coach Steve Shepherd. “Our athletes don’t just compete — they commit themselves to living out the values that define true character. Earning gold-level status reflects the integrity, discipline, and servant leadership they bring to every practice, every game, and every classroom.”
 
The award comes on the heels of a standout season for the College of the Ozarks Women’s Basketball team, which returned to NAIA competition after a two-year hiatus. The Lady Bobcats captured the Continental Athletic Conference Tournament title and earned a berth to the NAIA National Championship Tournament, finishing the season with a 25-7 record. Head Coach Becky Mullis was named Coach of the Year, and senior Kayley Frank earned Player of the Year honors. Frank also received individual recognition as a Champion of Character for the conference.
 
“Our players had a steep learning curve with playing highly ranked NAIA teams, all on the road,” Mullis said. “We held our own very well and learned what it takes to compete at a high level. I am most proud of us earning an automatic bid to the NAIA National Tournament in just our first year back.”
 
College of the Ozarks is known nationally for its unique work-college model, where students work campus jobs to offset tuition costs. This model fosters a culture of responsibility and time management, as student-athletes balance rigorous academic schedules, athletic commitments, and 15-hour work weeks. The result is a student body deeply rooted in character, resilience, and service.
 
“Our student-athletes work incredibly hard to represent the College with integrity and purpose,” said Mullis. “They understand that success isn’t just about wins — it’s about how you carry yourself every day.”
 
With a rich tradition in NAIA athletics — including 27 national tournament appearances and five championship game finishes — the College of the Ozarks continues to build on its legacy of excellence, both in competition and character.
 
NAIA Gold Five-Star Award Winners
 
For additional information, contact Public Relations Director Valorie Coleman at (417) 690-2212.