GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Cornerstone student-athlete Abi Bandstra has been named the Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC) Dr. LeRoy Walker Student-Athlete of Character award recipient for the 2024-25 athletic season.

The award honors outstanding student-athletes for their academic and athletic accomplishments, leadership skills, and dedication to living the core values of NAIA's Champions of Character. Eligible student-athletes must have at least junior academic standings and a 3.0 or higher cumulative GPA, athletic achievements, and campus and community and leadership.

Bandstra just completed her junior season on the women's basketball team where she helped them reach the WHAC Tournament Championship game for the first time since 2018. Her hustle and heart are contagious on the court and lifts everyone around her. Off the court, she has earned WHAC All-Academic and NAIA Scholar-Athlete honors thanks to her 3.97 GPA.

"What truly sets Abi apart is her servant leadership. She leads not by seeking the spotlight but by consistently showing up for others—mentoring younger teammates, organizing community service initiatives, and modeling a life rooted in compassion and purpose," head coach Jessica Yonkers stated. "Abi is the kind of person who makes everyone around her better. Her character is unwavering, and her impact is lasting."

Bandstra continues to serve in her community. She has earned the SALT Award which was given by Cornerstone Athletics to someone who goes above and beyond court, field, or course. It is something that not only positively influences their team, but what it means to be a disciple of Christ across campus. Bandstra also serves as a Freshman Orientation Leader and Student Athlete Leadership Team Secretary. Off campus, she is a Younglife Leader as well as a Sunday School Leader as she continues to pour into her community.

Bandstra has been forwarded for the Dr. LeRoy Walker Student-Athlete of Character Award ballot as the WHAC nominee. The NAIA is set to release the national award recipients on September 15. 
 
Women's Basketball Contact: Jonny Strube
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