(FULTON, Mo., Nov. 20)--The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics has recognized William Woods University as a Champions of Character Institution for the 2007-08 Academic Year.

According to the NAIA "199 colleges and universities were named Champions of Character institutions for the 2007-08 school year. The total number of member institutions recognized shows a 20% increase from 2006-07. These institutions share the NAIA’s commitment to high standards and to the principle that participation in athletics serves as an integral part of the total education process."

“Champions of Character has a profound impact on student-athletes, coaches and in the communities the NAIA and member institutions serve. I am delighted to see an increase in the number of schools that use the program to intentionally teach character,” said Rob Haworth, NAIA Vice President for Champions of 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.”

The William Woods Athletic department has a history of excellence with the Champions of Character program.  In the spring of 2007, the William Woods University softball program was awarded the Buffalo Funds Five Star Award for its dedication and implementation of the Champions of Character program’s five core values: respect, responsibility, integrity, servant leadership and sportsmanship.  Also, this fall, several William Woods student-athletes were featured on the NAIA web site for their testimonials on the five core values.