Bowling Green, KY – As a testament to his exemplary leadership, integrity, and service both in and out of the range, University of the Cumberlands archer Joseph West has earned the 2025-26 Mid-South Conference Men's Character First Award, conference officials announced Monday.  West becomes the eighth Patriot student-athlete, and the second archer, to earn this distinction, which began in 2015.

"It is an honor to receive this award from the Mid-South Conference. As I go through life I hope it is not my character that is shown, but my faith and the work of God in my life," said West. "Every interaction matters though they may not be perfect, they all hold value. It is important to encourage others through service to them, and the drive to leave things better than I found them. It is not without my coaches and teammates along the way to push me to be authentic and be bold in my endeavors on and off the field. 'But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.' Matthew 6:33"

West has excelled in every facet of the student-athlete experience, abiding by the principles of Patriot Pledge and the NAIA Champions of Character initiative. On the range, West is a two-time USA Archery All-American in the men's fixed pins division.  The Williamsburg, KY native is coming off a strong junior campaign, where he garnered MSC First Team All-Conference honors.  West finish atop the podium at the MSC 3D Championship, while posting a runner-up finish during indoor.  He followed that up by being part of UC's men's fixed pins team that captured gold during both the 2025 and 2026 Outdoor National Championships. 

"Joe is the kind of person who naturally makes those around him better, not because he seeks recognition, but because serving and encouraging others is simply who he is," said Patriots Head Archery Coach Kris Strebeck. "He consistently shows respect, integrity, and humility in every situation. He understands that leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room, but about showing up for others, doing the right thing, and setting a positive example."

West has been one of the most consistent archers for the Patriots over the past three years. Overall, the junior recorded seven national podium finishes, including six national titles.  West had a breakout sophomore campaign highlighted by going 6-0 en route to capturing his first individual national title during the 2025 Outdoor National Championship.  West also notched a national runner-up finish at USA Indoor Nationals.  Beyond his individual success, West captured five national titles as part of Cumberlands men's fixed pins team.
 
Beyond being a leader on the range, Joseph has inspired others around him and been a shining example of servant leadership.  He has served as a Resident Assistant for the past two years, earning the Resident Life Above and Beyond Award. West has also dedicated significant time working with Mountain Outreach, assisting with various projects throughout the Appalachian Region.    Additionally, West is active in his church, where he is a beacon of servant leadership. 

For his incredible efforts, while being a student-athlete at UC West earned the 2025-26 Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, which is presented annually to a graduating senior who exemplifies leadership, service, and outstanding spiritual values.  Additionally, West has been the Cumberlands School of Education Mavis Broome scholarship recipient and is a Hutton Scholar.  The Williamsburg native is a three-time USA Archery Academic All-American as well as a three-time MSC Academic All-Conference selection. 
 
The Men's Character First award is presented annually to a student-athlete who has displayed integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership. Through consistently demonstrating these character traits in word and action, the student-athlete has made a profound impact on their team, their institution, and their community.
 
West will now be in the running for the NAIA Dr. LeRoy Walker Award, which will be announced on September 15 as part of the NAIA Awards Day.

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What People are Saying:

"This is an incredible and well-deserved honor for Joe, who has been a pillar of the Williamsburg community for the last several years.  Joe is a person that inspires others to want to be better, while leading by example and pouring into both his own success as well as the success of others around him."   – Tommy Chasanoff, Associate Athletic Director.
 
"Joseph has perpetually displayed very special character attributes that are rare and are becoming more and more rare these days. Joseph is honest, hardworking, disciplined, and has tremendous integrity and has been a valuable member of our team." – Rocky Brown, Director of Mountain Outreach
 
"Joseph demonstrates servant leadership in the way he consistently puts others first and seeks opportunities to help where needed.  He leads by example, remains humble, and consistently demonstrates strong moral character.  His presence has made our school better and left a lasting impact on both our student and staff."  - Heather Roaden, Principal of Whitley Central Intermediate School