LA CROSSE, Wis. - The Ashford University athletic department's sustained academic prowess was recognized by the Midwest Collegiate Conference at the league's annual meeting on Thursday, leading to receipt of the coveted Presidents' Cup in just its second year of existence.

The award is presented to the institution with the highest percentage of student-athletes on postseason rosters with a grade point average over 3.25 during the 2009-10 academic year.

"This is an outstanding achievement for our student-athletes," AU Athletics Director Meg Schebler said. "It is really recognition for our entire university, as the faculty and staff have been extremely supportive of the student-athletes in their endeavors in the classroom and athletic arenas. Their willingness to go the extra mile is instrumental to our student-athletes' success."

Schebler was presented the award yesterday at the league's athletics director meeting that included all MCC institutions, Clarke College, Grand View University, Iowa Wesleyan College, Mt. Mercy College, St. Ambrose University, Viterbo University, Waldorf College and William Penn University, in attendance.

The award is sponsored by the Presidents from all schools within the Midwest Collegiate Conference.

The Presidents' Cup caps a stellar academic offseason that has featured 12 programs being named NAIA Scholar Teams, 83 student-athletes selected to the MCC Academic All-Conference list and 19 student-athletes achieving Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete status.

"I am so proud of our student-athletes and coaching staff for their efforts and attention to the importance of academic success," Schebler said.