Kirkland, Wash. - Northwest University volleyball players Kalli Budge, Aubree Dees, Morgan Harter, and Ellie Van Berkum were named to the College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District Volleyball Team, which recognizes student athletes who excel both academically and athletically.
These four student athletes are among many across the nation that have been selected to the CSC Academic All-District Volleyball Teams, as they continue to uphold Northwest's commitment to academic success and competitiveness.
"Every player in our program is committed to academic excellence, and we are proud of the academic achievements of Kalli, Aubree, Morgan, and Ellie," stated Head Coach Steven Bain. "They represent the academic goals of every player in our program."
Student-athletes selected to the CSC Academic All-District Volleyball Teams are those who demonstrate high levels of academic achievement while contributing significantly to their team's success throughout the season.
Kalli Budge
Kalli Budge has consistently provided a presence at the net for the Eagles and has developed into a solid hitter and reliable defender. Throughout her career, she accumulated 387 kills, 284 total blocks, and a kill-per-set average of 1.24, while raising her hitting percentage to .267 during the 2025 season. In addition to being a quality scholar-athlete, Budge received Academic All-Conference and Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athlete recognition in 2023. Her leadership goes beyond the court through her involvement in numerous community service projects and academic excellence, embodying the principles of the Northwest program.
Aubree Dees
Transfer Aubree Dees quickly became a valuable asset to the Eagles, compiling a total of 465 kills, 464 digs, and over 2.5 points per set in her final season. She produced 218 kills, 282 digs, and added 55 service aces during the 2025 season, showcasing her versatility as an all-around player. Dees has an accomplished resume including Conference Player of the Year at Bakersfield College, as well as numerous other academic and athletic accolades, making her a well-rounded student-athlete in the conference.
Morgan Harter
Setting the tone for the Northwest offense, Morgan Harter provided stability and accuracy throughout the season. In her career, Harter tallied 2,506 assists, with an average of 5.47 assists
per set, while also producing increased numbers offensively and defensively. Harter is a recognized academic leader, having earned Academic All-Conference and Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athlete recognition, as well as multiple Setter of the Week awards. Harter embodies the CSC Academic All-District standard through her leadership on the court and her commitment to excellence in the classroom.
Ellie Van Berkum
Consistently providing a solid presence in the back row for the Eagles, Ellie Van Berkum finished her career with 1,197 digs and an impressive 3.75 digs per set. In her standout 2024 season, Van Berkum averaged nearly five digs per set, displaying her ability to dig consistently and defend instinctively. Van Berkum is a Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athlete and All-Conference honoree who has demonstrated her commitment to her studies, service, and faith, making her a respected leader in the Northwest community.
The recognition of Budge, Dees, Harter, and Van Berkum underscores Northwest University volleyball's mission to develop student-athletes who excel in competition, academics, and character, truly representing what it means to be an Eagle
