Rollins Ranks in Top 5 in the Nation for Academic and Athletic Excellence

For the 15th consecutive year, Rollins has earned the NCAA President’s Award for Academic Excellence, which recognizes the College among the nation’s top schools for blending athletic and academic excellence.

The NCAA recognizes Division II members schools earning an academic success rate of 90 percent or higher, and Rollins is one of just 43 schools to receive the distinction this year.

The academic success rate (ASR) equates to the percentage of student-athletes who graduate within six years of initial collegiate enrollment. For 2025, Rollins student-athletes achieved a 98 percent success rate, landing in the top spot in the Sunshine State Conference (SSC) and third highest in the nation.

“These 43 institutions exemplify the balance of academic achievement, competitive excellence and personal growth that defines Division II,” says Colleen Perry Keith, president at Goldey-Beacom College and president of the Division II Executive Board. “I am especially proud of the sustained dedication shown by the schools that have earned this honor year after year. Their consistency reflects a deep, campuswide commitment to ensuring that student-athletes are supported, challenged, and prepared for life well beyond graduation.”

The Tars join Florida Southern College, Barry University, Florida Institute of Technology, Eckerd College, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and Nova Southeastern University as the only schools from the SSC to earn the Presidents’ Award.

“Rollins Athletics has allowed me to thrive both athletically and academically,” says business management major Gabby Boyd ’26 ’27MBA, who was recently named a College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District women’s soccer honoree for academic excellence. “Our athletics programs place a strong emphasis on academic success. I’ve always felt supported by my faculty—not just to perform in the classroom but also to excel on the field. That support has created an environment where I can truly push myself. I’m also incredibly grateful for the consistent guidance from my coaching staff, who have helped me become the best student-athlete I can be.”

According to the NCAA, Division II student-athletes continue to outperform their peers and graduate at a higher rate than the general student body. Since the organization started recognizing institutions with high ASRs in 2010, Rollins stands among just seven institutions to have earned the award every single year.

“This award is a testament to the hard work of our student-athletes who put in as much time and effort in the classroom as the playing field,” says Pennie Parker, associate vice president of athletics. “I’m also so proud of our coaches and support staff who help maintain the proper balance of training and academics, ensuring a positive experience for all who suit up for the Tars.”