HOUGHTON, N.Y. – Houghton University recently was named a finalist for the 2024-25 #KingChasing Institution of the Year award by the National Christian College Athletic Association.

The overall award went to the University of Northwestern, with Houghton and Bob Jones University earning finalist honors. This marks the second time Houghton has been among the program's finalists, having won the inaugural Institution of the Year in 2022.
 
The #KingChasing program uses the four values of the Game Plan 4 LIFE – Love, Integrity, Faith, and Excellence – to enhance the purpose of collegiate athletics to be more than winning championships. The mission of the #KingChasing program is to keep Christ at the center of the student-athlete experience.
  
"We are humbled and honored to be recognized as one of three finalists for the NCCAA #KingChasing institute of the year," said Houghton Director of Athletics Matthew Webb. "This recognition is ultimately a testament to our coaches and athletes who prioritize and practically demonstrate 'Excellence for the Glory of God' in how they compete on the field/court/track and also serve others in our community."

NCCAA member institutions have the opportunity to be named an NCCAA #KingChasing Institution on an annual basis, earning points based on a variety of Christian service activities by teams, coaches and student-athletes. Earning this title showcases the institution's commitment to integrating Christ within its athletic department.

The #KingChasing Standards are foundational elements that athletic department staff and student-athletes commit to represent and uphold.