KIRKLAND, Wash. – Northwest University Athletics placed a strong group of student-athletes on the 2026 NAIA Scholar-Athlete list for spring sports, highlighting the department's continued commitment to excellence both in competition and in the classroom.
The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) proudly announced its 2026 NAIA Scholar-Athletes for spring sports. Each semester, the NAIA Scholar-Athlete list celebrates student-athletes who excel in both academic and athletic arenas. This honor recognizes student-athletes across spring sports who have demonstrated outstanding academic success.
To qualify as an NAIA Scholar-Athlete, students must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, appear on the eligibility certificate for their sport, and have attended their institution for at least one full year. The 2026 list once again features an impressive number of student-athletes who have met these rigorous standards.
Northwest was well represented across multiple programs, led by a strong showing from beach volleyball and track and field.
Beach Volleyball
Addy Stone
Aubree Dees
Ava Hoy
Ellie Van Berkum
Kali Dransfeldt
Kylie Rankins
Men's Track and Field
Connor Blair
Ethan White
Isaiah J. Hollinger
Jarron Ransford
Levi Nichols
Preston Hopp
Silas LaRose
Women's Track and Field
Emri Butcher
Jenisha Green
Karina Foree
Marissa Guthrie
Rachel Elliott
Yujeong Jang
Northwest's honorees reflect the balance of academic dedication and athletic performance that defines the department. The Eagles continue to demonstrate success in competition while maintaining a strong presence in the classroom, a key pillar of the student-athlete experience at Northwest University.