Indiana State University student-athletes continued their tradition of academic excellence during the 2025-26 academic year, earning a third-place finish in the Missouri Valley Conference Academic Award standings with a cumulative grade point average of 3.507.
Among the Conference’s member institutions, only Illinois State University (3.535) and Drake University (3.512) posted higher cumulative grade point averages. Indiana State’s 3.507 GPA reflects the highest academic year cumulative GPA recorded by Sycamore Athletics in at least the past three years and continues a strong upward trajectory in classroom achievement.
The accomplishment represents a significant increase from Indiana State’s cumulative athletic department GPA of 3.464 during the 2024-25 academic year and 3.407 during the 2023-24 academic year.
“This recognition reflects the commitment our student-athletes make every day to excellence both in competition and in the classroom,” said Indiana State University Director of Athletics Nathan Christensen. “Our coaches, academic support staff, faculty, and student-athletes have worked together to build a culture where academic success is expected and celebrated. Finishing among the top academic programs in the Missouri Valley Conference is a tremendous achievement and one that speaks to the character and dedication of our student-athletes.”
The 2025-26 academic results continue a broader trend of academic success for Indiana State Athletics. The University has consistently ranked among the Missouri Valley Conference leaders in academic honors and recognition, including producing conference-leading numbers of student-athletes earning academic awards in recent years.
Indiana State University President Mike Godard said the achievement aligns with the University’s strategic plan, Take Root & Rise, particularly its commitment to fostering an exceptional student experience and preparing graduates for lifelong success.
“Our student-athletes continue to demonstrate that academic achievement and athletic excellence go hand in hand,” President Godard said. “This accomplishment reflects the hard work, discipline, and determination of our students, as well as the support they receive from coaches, faculty, advisors, and staff across campus. We are proud to see Indiana State University recognized among the top academic athletic programs in the Missouri Valley Conference.”
Indiana State University sponsors 15 NCAA Division I athletic programs and competes as a member of the Missouri Valley Conference. The University’s student-athletes continue to excel both academically and athletically while representing the institution’s commitment to excellence in all endeavors.