GREENVILLE, S.C. – Columbia International University Athletics finished third in the final NCCAA Division I Presidential Award standings for the 2025-26 academic year, capping one of the most successful seasons in department history.

The NCCAA Presidential Award is presented annually to the top-performing athletic departments in NCCAA Division I and Division II competition. Points are awarded based on team finishes at NCCAA National Championships across all sanctioned sports.

The Rams' third-place finish was fueled by postseason success across multiple programs throughout the year. CIU earned the No. 1 overall seed at the NCCAA National Championships in both softball and women's volleyball, while the men's basketball and women's volleyball teams each advanced to their respective national championship games. The men's soccer team also made a deep postseason run, reaching the NCCAA National Championship semifinals.

Individually, Luke Hammond highlighted the year by capturing the NCCAA Men's Golf Individual National Championship. CIU Track & Field also enjoyed a standout season, producing multiple national champions and numerous NCCAA All-Americans during both the NCCAA Indoor and Outdoor Track & Field Championships.

The NCCAA Presidential Award recognizes overall athletic achievement and excellence across all championship sports sponsored by the association. Bethel University claimed the 2025-26 NCCAA Division I Presidential Award, while Crown College earned the Division II honor.