DALTON, Ga. – Dalton State College has been named an NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Gold Institution for the 2025-26 academic year.
 
"Earning Gold status is a tremendous reflection of the values our coaches, student-athletes and staff work to live out every day," said Ben Rickett, Dalton State Athletic Director. "This shows continued growth in our commitment to developing student-athletes who lead with the NAIA's five core values: integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and servant leadership."
 
The Five-Star Champions of Character Award recognizes NAIA institutions that demonstrate a strong commitment to character-driven athletics throughout the academic year. Dalton State earned Gold status by scoring between 90 and 100 points on the NAIA Champions of Character Core Report, which evaluates schools in character training, conduct in competition, academic focus, character recognition and character promotion.
 
The NAIA Champions of Character program is a national initiative designed to help student-athletes, coaches and parents "know, do and value the right thing" both on and off the field. Institutions earn points through demonstrated character education, academic performance, conduct standards and recognition of character-centered leadership across campus and competition.
 
Dalton State was one of 203 NAIA member institutions recognized as Champions of Character Five-Star Award winners for 2025-26. Schools receive Gold, Silver or Bronze status based on their total score.
 
The recognition continues Dalton State's emphasis on developing the whole student-athlete experience. The Champions of Character model aligns with the NAIA's broader philosophy that athletics should build character, leadership and personal growth in addition to competitive success.

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