Champions of Character Institutional Report Card

Fall 2011

"Character has always been important. But with changes in society today, it needs more reinforcement than ever before." John Wooden, Coach – NAIA Hall of Fame Member

Haskell Indian Nations University as a member of the NAIA recognizes our role in developing and fostering an athletics program which espouses and exemplifies the five core values.  This year, under the leadership of President James Redman, a new approach was undertaken to ensure all student-athletes became aware of our goal through a workshop series focusing on the core values.

In early August 2011 the first of two "Night of Champions" was held in Tony Coffin Sports Complex.  The goal of this event was to provide an opportunity for all student-athletes to attend three workshops centered on the Core Values. Presenters included campus administrators, faculty, and community members with experience in higher education, sports administration, and service learning.  Over 150 student-athletes participated in this event which culminated with a challenge to actively demonstrate the core values through service learning projects during the fall semester.

The second event was held in December 2011 and provided the student-athletes with the opportunity to attend the two remaining sessions on the Core Values.  This event resulted in over 90 percent of the student-athletes participating in workshops on all five Core Values over the course of the two events.

The commitment by the student-athletes and coaches to take ownership is seen in the effort by teams through their service to community and exhibition during competition.  Like other NAIA schools the balancing of studies and practice times by student-athletes and coaches requires a willingness to make sacrifices. Often times these sacrifices are not seen by the fans or parents, such as giving up a Saturday or weekend to participate or conduct a service learning project. 

This fall Haskell teams made significant contributions in and around the local community.  Here are a few examples: Haskell Volleyball hosted a one day camp for students from Sequoyah Indian School; Haskell Cross Country teams, both men and women, participated in "Make a Difference Day" at Schwegler Elementary School in Lawrence; and the Haskell Football team was seen throughout campus at all major events lending their support in unison.

Haskell Athletics embodiment of the NAIA Champions of Character Initiative has become a foundation for developing programs and specifically student-athletes which exemplify character.  We look forward to sharing with you our progress over the next academic year on the projects and contributions made by our student-athletes.  Onward Haskell!