FLORENCE, Ala. (May 20, 2026) – The University of North Alabama Department of Athletics announced grades for the Spring 2026 semester on Wednesday, as the Lions finished with a 3.30 overall department GPA.

This semester brings UNA's annual GPA to a 3.28, which ties the last academic year for the highest annual department GPA on record. This also marks the 21st consecutive semester with a department GPA above a 3.0.

Raising the standard, UNA has finished with a 3.2 or higher in 12 of the last 13 semesters.

"Academic excellence remains the standard that drives our success at North Alabama," said UNA Director of Athletics Dr. Josh Looney. "Our academic numbers are a direct reflection of the commitment of our student-athletes to the classroom. Their accomplishments are made possible by exceptional faculty, coaches and academic leaders who are fully aligned in their pursuit of excellence and who continually challenge our student-athletes to perform at the highest level in the classroom, in competition and in the community."

The beach volleyball program finished with the highest total this semester with a 3.78 GPA. Not far behind was the women's soccer program with a 3.76 GPA to set a new program record. For the academic year, soccer women's tennis and football celebrated their highest annual GPAs on record.

The top five was rounded out by women's golf, women's tennis and men's golf. The women's cross country and indoor volleyball programs were among the seven to finish above a 3.50 GPA.

UNA had 232 student-athletes finish above a 3.0 GPA this semester — nearly 75 percent of the group. Of that number, 72 student-athletes finished with a perfect 4.0 GPA.

The Lions also celebrated 58 graduates for the academic year.

"Our student-athletes continue to do an incredible job balancing their responsibilities as student-athletes," said Associate Athletic Director for Governance and Student-Athlete Experience Anna Milwee Hovater. "Many already have jobs and career opportunities lined up before graduation, which speaks volumes about their dedication and preparation. We are extremely grateful for their commitment to academic excellence and the standard they continue to set both in the classroom and in competition."

For more information on North Alabama Athletics, visit www.roarlions.com and follow UNA Athletics on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.