Winona State Warriors Excel in Academics: 23 Named to WIAC Honor Roll

The Winona State University women’s gymnastics program keeps showing that excellence isn’t limited to the competition floor. In a fresh announcement from the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC), an impressive 23 members of the Warriors gymnastics team landed on the 2024–25 WIAC Scholastic Honor Roll.

This achievement highlights the team’s dedication to both athletic and academic success. It’s part of a tradition that reflects the university’s deep-rooted commitment to developing student-athletes who thrive in every part of their college experience.

Academic Excellence Shines for Winona State Gymnastics

The WIAC Scholastic Honor Roll stands as one of the most respected academic awards in collegiate athletics across the Midwest. Student-athletes must keep a minimum grade point average of 3.00 during the year to qualify.

Having 23 Warriors honored really shows how they balance tough training with demanding coursework. It’s a testament to the discipline and perseverance that runs through Winona State athletics.

The coaching staff encourages academic performance just as much as athletic achievement. The results from the 2024–25 year prove the program’s approach: they value growth in mind and body.

Recognizing the 23 Warrior Honorees

The WIAC Scholastic Honor Roll honorees come from a mix of majors, hometowns, and class years. Each student-athlete has shown steady commitment to excellence.

• Kendra Aitken – Wentzville, MO
• Kaylee Bateman – Arden Hills, MN
• Brooklynn Clapp – Brock, TX
• Alyssa Crisp – Cullowhee, NC
• Ella Denno – Virginia Beach, VA
• Lenee Dimkin – Keswick, Ontario
• Madysen Diskerud – Pine Island, MN
• Kaelyn Duman – San Antonio, TX
• Izzy Huncker – Overland Park, KS
• Irene Kearney – Chicago, IL
• Reagan Kelley – Mound, MN
• Courtney Knutson – Forest Lake, MN
• Gabby Kraft – Eden Prairie, MN
• Taylor Magierka – Mattawan, MI
• Camdyn McSweeney – Champlin, MN
• Jessica Miley – Olathe, KS
• Kennedy O’Connor – Roselle, IL
• Aspen Peters – Brookings, SD
• Ashley Phillips – Lockport, IL
• Maddie Reiner – Omaha, NE
• Mollie Ruch – Bath, PA
• Bryce Stoltz – Highlands Ranch, CO
• Rachel Van Namen – Innisfil, Ontario

They’ve all proven that you can succeed in the classroom and in the gym. Their spots on the WIAC Scholastic Honor Roll are the result of late-night study sessions, team support, and plenty of personal drive.

The Importance of Academic Achievement in Collegiate Athletics

In today’s college sports world, juggling academics and high-level competition is tough. Gymnastics demands precision, time management, and mental grit—skills that often spill over into academic life.

The Warriors’ accomplishment says a lot about their ability to balance the grind of NCAA competition with their goals in the classroom. Winona State University has always put academics at the heart of its athletic programs.

The university’s approach prepares student-athletes for life after sports, whether that means entering a profession, grad school, or even coaching. That’s right in line with the WIAC’s mission to shape well-rounded people who give back to their communities.

WIAC’s Role in Promoting Student-Athlete Success

The Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference is known for pushing both athletic and academic standards. Every year, the conference honors hundreds of students from all kinds of sports who maintain a GPA of 3.00 or higher.

This kind of recognition shines a light on individual effort and boosts the academic reputation of WIAC schools. For Winona State, being part of the WIAC means competing with some of the best—on the field and in the classroom.

The Warriors’ regular presence on the Scholastic Honor Roll strengthens their reputation as one of the most balanced programs in the conference.

Developing Champions in the Classroom and Beyond

Behind every honor roll name, there’s a story of persistence. For many student-athletes, balancing early practices, travel, and tough classes can feel overwhelming at times.

The Warriors’ gymnastics team keeps proving that teamwork, accountability, and a shared drive for growth make all the difference. Coaches and academic advisors at Winona State play a big part in this.

From organized study sessions to one-on-one mentoring, the university gives these athletes the tools they need. This support network sits at the heart of the Warriors’ ongoing academic success in the WIAC.

Building a Legacy of Academic Distinction

Over the years, Winona State gymnastics has earned a reputation for both athletic talent and academic consistency. Earning 23 spots on the WIAC Scholastic Honor Roll continues that tradition.

The team’s academic success creates a culture of respect and motivation. Younger gymnasts look up to their veteran teammates, learning that dedication to schoolwork matters just as much as perfecting routines on the beam or floor.

This mentorship strengthens the program’s foundation year after year. There’s something special about seeing that kind of legacy continue.