BRIGHTON, Mich. – The Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) has announced the 2026 recipients of its Academic Elite Award, recognizing the conference's top student-athletes for their exceptional academic achievement. For the second year in a row, Trine University had the most student-athletes earn the status.

Established by the MIAA Faculty Athletic Representatives in 2025, the Academic Elite Award is presented annually to the male and female student-athlete in each sport with the highest cumulative grade-point average. Honorees must have at least two years of varsity participation and hold junior or senior academic standing. In the case of identical GPAs, multiple student-athletes may be honored in the same sport.

The Thunder had 45 student-athletes earn 54 Academic Elite accolades, with individuals boasting the top GPA in multiple sports in which they compete earning the distinction more than once. Across the conference 145 student-athletes were recognized.

Seven student-athletes were recognized for the second year in a row. Headlining the group was Sophia Altman who earned the recognition for the sixth time this year after sweeping all three of her sports including cross country, indoor and outdoor track and field. Avery Boyce is a four time honoree earning the status in indoor and outdoor track and field. Trey Richard (football), Payton Ault (women's golf), Zara Powell (women's soccer), Emma Lee (softball) and Emilee Bassett (women's tennis) each represented their sport for the second straight season.

Women's track and field was the most recognized team for the Thunder, with six student-athletes earning the honor. Both softball and women's soccer had five recognized.

For a full list of the honorees and more information on the award check out the MIAA's full release.