Six student-athletes from William Peace University received recognition on the CSC Academic All-District Team for the 2025-26 season. This national award, presented by College Sports Communicators, honors student-athletes from NCAA Divisions I, II, III, and the NAIA for their achievements in both academics and athletics.
The Pacers recognized were Elise Langer ’26, Egypt Carrol ’26, Kylie McWhorter ’27, and Iyana Covington ’28 from women’s lacrosse, and Aidan McNeely ’26 and Kyle Yarter ’28 from men’s lacrosse.
To qualify, students must maintain a minimum 3.50 cumulative GPA, be at least sophomores both academically and athletically, and meet specific participation requirements for their sport. This recognition reflects the exceptional dedication required to excel in both academics and athletics.
“It’s great to see our student-athletes get recognized for the hard work they put into the classroom as well as their sport,” Carly Vadinsky, director of athletic communications, said. “Balancing both is not easy, and honors like this reflect that commitment.”
Women’s Lacrosse Head Coach Keslee Hylton attributes her players’ success to an intentional institutional commitment to student success both in and out of the classroom. This award reflects that dedication.
“We value academic excellence at Peace, whether you are a student-athlete or not,” she said. “We make that commitment clear to our athletes so they understand academics are a top priority, and we expect them to prioritize it as well. We provide structured study halls, including during travel, and utilize resources from our Student Success Center. Ensuring my athletes have time, support, and access to these resources whenever they need them is very important to me.”
Mastering the Dual Commitment
McWhorter transferred to Peace and soon felt at home on the lacrosse team. She later joined the swim team as well, and balancing two sports with her studies became a challenge she was eager to take on.
“Becoming a dual-sport athlete while getting used to a new school was a big change,” she said. “Peace has a more challenging curriculum than my previous school. I had to learn better time management while balancing two sports and taking on more responsibility on the team, but I adjusted quickly. Everyone at Peace wants you to succeed.”
Students noted that the emphasis on their success across departments made it easy to ask for help when they needed it.
“I like to get to know my professors,” McNeely said. “I really liked how close-knit Peace is. As long as you communicate with your professors, they understand the challenges of balancing school and sports. It was tough at times, but learning time management and hard work helped me make time for both, on top of working while I was in school.”
Among the supportive faculty recognized by award recipients was Jackson Bostian, assistant professor of user experience design.
“The most important thing is trusting students to value their academics,” Bostian said. “Activities outside of class, like sports, the arts, or volunteering, are important and enriching. What makes these students special is how they make time for those activities without letting their academics slip. Sometimes they need extra time for assignments, but that doesn’t mean they’re neglecting their work. It shows they care about doing their best and keeping up the quality of their work.”
Recognition for Unseen Effort
Although the award is given every year, students did not know they had been selected until the full list was announced on June 16. The surprise was a great way to finish the academic year.
“It was a great affirmation of all the hard work I’ve put in,” Langer said. “Most people don’t see what student-athletes do behind the scenes. It’s a daily effort that often goes unnoticed. Getting an award for that feels like a nice pat on the back.”
Covington is a first-time athlete at Peace and hadn’t planned to play sports in college. She joined the women’s lacrosse team when they needed more players and soon felt at home because of the team’s culture. She appreciated being recognized for her efforts.
“I was excited and proud when I saw I got the award because it felt good to be recognized for something in sports as a first-time athlete,” she said. “It feels great because it really is difficult to manage your time and make sure you’re showing up for both your sport and your classes. This award is very validating.”
Learn more about how Peace student-athletes excel in the classroom and on the field.
