"We are honored that our hard work as a department is being recognized nationally," said Wilberforce University Director of Athletics Roosevelt Barnes. "As a competitor and leader, you always wanted to strive for greatness. The Silver Award is only the beginning for the Wilberforce Bulldogs Athletic Department." 
 
A total of 210 NAIA member institutions were named Champions of Character Five-Star Award winners. Institutions are measured on a demonstrated commitment to Champions of Character and earn points in character training, conduct in competition, academic focus, character recognition and character promotion.  

Institutions earned points based on exceptional student-athlete grade point averages and by having minimal to no ejections during competition throughout the course of the academic year.