William Penn Named Heart ASA Chapter School of the Year
Oskaloosa–The William Penn University Association of Student-Athletes was recently recognized for its tremendous efforts on campus and in the community as it was named a 2025-2026 Heart of America Athletic Conference Chapter of the Year.
The award, in its inaugural year, recognized both WPU and Park University.
William Penn’s ASA, guided by an executive board and advised by Assistant Athletic Director for Internal Operations CJ Rettig, was integral in building relationships not only throughout campus, but also in the Oskaloosa community.
The group, which accumulated over 300 volunteer hours by its members, met numerous times each month to discuss various topics and initiatives.
In addition to sponsoring game-day promotions like Equality Night and the Teddy Bear Toss, the ASA also partnered with the Oskaloosa School District, including High Five Fridays at the elementary, launching a Champions for Change collection drive at the middle school, and assisting the high school in starting its own ASA.
The ASA advocated for Name, Image, and Likeness opportunities for its student-athlete population, while also organizing recognition for several groups, including officials, athletic trainers, sports information directors, and athletic directors. Mini Mic Mondays were also led by the ASA to highlight not only Statesmen student-athletes, but William Penn administrators as well.
The group continued to foster the brother-sister programs throughout the WPU sports teams, while also successfully re-introducing the campus-wide, end-of-the-year student-athlete survey. The ASA was able to grow its Instagram following by 38% as well.
“I am incredibly proud of this group and the culture they have created among our student-athlete body,” Rettig said. “Our executive board did a phenomenal job of initiating meaningful outreach, both on campus and within the broader community, while fostering an environment built on connection, inclusion, and service. The impact they have made extends far beyond our organization, and I could not be more proud of the example they have set for their fellow student-athletes.”
“I am grateful for the dedication of our executive board and proud of the student-run association they have built,” Rettig added. “Their commitment to advocating for and supporting their fellow student-athletes is truly inspiring, and I am proud of the leadership, passion, and sense of community they continue to demonstrate.”
