University of Wisconsin-Whitewater senior Gunner Schlender (Brillion, Wis./Brillion) was presented with the Elite 90 Award at the 2024 NCAA Division III Outdoor Track and Field banquet last night. The award is the top academic honor awarded at each of the NCAA's 90 championships. 

Schlender has maintained a 4.0 cumulative grade point average with a major in physical education in four years at UWW. He is the second Warhawk to earn the honor - joining Jared Denu in 2015 with the elite recognition. 

The Elite 90 Academic Award Program recognizes the true essence of the student-athlete by honoring the individual who has reached the pinnacle of competition at the national championship level in their sport, while also achieving the highest academic standard among peers. The Elite 90 Award is presented to the student-athlete with the highest cumulative grade point average participating at the finals site for each NCAA championship. 

To be eligible, student-athletes must be of at least sophomore status academically and in their second year of competition at the current institution. For track and field, the individual must have qualified for the championship and must by physically able to compete at the finals site. 

The 2024 NCAA Division III Outdoor Track and Field Championships are currently underway in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and will conclude Saturday.