November 11, 2026
MADISON, S.D. – Dakota State University's cross-country student-athletes
Jonah Thiele and
Kierra Miller were named recipients of the 2026-27 Frontier Conference Champions of Character Awards, presented by WinWon Technologies. The conference announced its 22 men's and women's cross-country honorees after the conclusion of the championship meet last Friday at Amend Park in Billings, Mont.
Thiele, a senior from Olathe, Kan., was selected as Dakota State's men's cross-country Champions of Character recipient. Miller, a graduate student from Hemingford, Neb., earned women's cross-country recognition.
Each of the Frontier Conference's 11 member institutions selected one male and one female cross-country student-athlete who best exemplifies the NAIA Champions of Character program's five core values: integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and servant leadership.
Thiele, who is majoring in computer science at Dakota State, was recognized for his humble personality, quiet leadership and willingness to support his teammates. He has made significant improvements throughout his collegiate running career while serving as a dependable leader within the Trojan men's cross-country program.
His commitment to personal growth, teamwork and supporting others has made him a positive influence on his teammates both in competition and away from the racecourse.
Miller, who is pursuing graduate studies in integrated biology, has been a multi-year leader for the Dakota State women's cross-country program. She has played an active role in assisting with team recruitment, volunteering for various initiatives and serving as a positive role model throughout the university community.
Miller's dedication to the Trojan cross-country program extends beyond competition, demonstrating leadership through her willingness to help others and contribute to the continued development of the women's team.
She is also the graduate assistant for DSU women's volleyball team this fall.
The Champions of Character recognition highlights student-athletes who demonstrate excellence in athletics, academics and community involvement while promoting the NAIA's core values.
Frontier Conference Commissioner Dr. Scott Crawford praised the 22 recipients for their selflessness, work ethic and leadership, emphasizing their contributions to their respective teams and communities.
The Champions of Character program is an NAIA initiative designed to develop character through athletics by emphasizing integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and servant leadership. The program encourages student-athletes, coaches and administrators to demonstrate these values in competition and everyday life.
The 2026-27 Frontier Conference Cross Country Champions of Character Awards are presented by WinWon Technologies, a conference partner specializing in collegiate eligibility management, compliance tracking and athletic department workflow solutions.
