Charlotte Leonard, a senior distance runner at Cal Poly Humboldt, has received the prestigious Dr. Hal Charnofsky Memorial Award for the 2025-26 academic year, awarded to exemplary student-athletes in the California Collegiate Athletic Association. This honor acknowledges her outstanding achievements in academics and athletics, as well as her leadership and integrity. Leonard is one of 24 student-athletes celebrated across the CCAA, selected from 12 member institutions, showcasing diverse sports and academic fields. The award, named after a dedicated advocate for student-athletes, highlights a commitment to excellence beyond the field. Leonard continues a strong legacy of achievement among Humboldt student-athletes.

By the Numbers
  • Leonard is one of two university recipients among 24 honored CCAA-wide.
  • Eligible athletes were chosen from 12 sponsored sports disciplines across CCAA campuses.
State of Play
  • Leonard is recognized for her dual excellence in academics and athletics.
  • The award celebrates the balance of achievement in both classroom studies and competitive sports.
What's Next

Leonard will continue to represent Cal Poly Humboldt in her remaining collegiate endeavors, potentially inspiring future candidates for this esteemed award. The ongoing recognition of student-athlete accomplishments may lead to increased awareness and support for academic-athletic programs in higher education.

Bottom Line

Leonard’s recognition emphasizes the importance of fostering academic and athletic success, serving as an inspiration for current and future student-athletes to excel in all aspects of their collegiate careers.