The University of North Texas at Dallas has been recognized by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) as a Champions of Character 5-star school with a silver distinction. 
 
The Champions of Character initiative centers around upholding the five core values of the NAIA. These 5 core values include integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and servant leadership. These values are at the forefront of the NAIA's philosophy in valuing competition and transitioning these to life after sport. The silver star distinction refers to the NAIA Champions of Character scorecard that highlights academic achievement and community engagement that incorporates the 5 core values. 
 
Kelly Perry, Director of Athletics, expressed her admiration of the coaches, staff and student-athletes, "I am so proud of the work our coaches, staff and student-athletes did in our community to share the Champions of Character initiative and the 5 core values. Their commitment to give back to those who encourage and look up to our student-athletes is something that we don't take for granted. As a department, we are looking forward to having our students back for the 2023-2024 year to grow our outreach."  
 
UNT Dallas was one of four Sooner Athletic Conference schools recognized for their community service and core value efforts. USAO received a gold distinction, Southwestern Assemblies of God received bronze and John Brown University received a silver. 

University of North Texas at Dallas begins the 2023-2024 year at the DBU Orville Rogers XC open in Grand Prairie, TX where the cross country teams will start their bid for a spot at the NAIA nationals.