Many student-athletes choose Augustana because they want to be able to succeed in every facet of their lives (to quote Holden Siena ’25). Augustana’s track record shows in the number of students recognized as Academic All-Americans, excelling equally in their studies and their sport.
Many Vikings student-athletes are also double majors. Focusing on more than one field means more versatility and depth of experience for the future.
Daniel Carr ’23
- Highlands Ranch, Colo., Academic All-American
- Basketball
- Accounting and Business Administration–Management
- CPA and professional basketball player
For Academic All-American Daniel Carr, post-graduate success means professional basketball. Currently he plays for the Caledonia Gladiators in Glasgow, Scotland.
"Being able to obtain a high-level degree as well as participate in a competitive basketball program was the balance I was looking for and ultimately received when coming to this school. It truly exceeded my expectations."
John Hayes ’21
- Denver, Colo.
- Baseball
- Accounting and Business Administration-Finance
- Financial services supervisor at RSM US LLP
Another graduate from Colorado, baseball standout John Hayes, took his risk-consulting internship with RSM in Chicago to the next level by getting hired by RSM even before graduating. This is not uncommon for Augustana accounting graduates.
"I chose Augustana because of its proud tradition of academic and athletic success. I wanted to be able to continue my baseball career, without sacrificing my education, and Augustana has allowed me to excel in both areas."
Holden Siena ’25
- Champaign, Ill.
- Swimming
- Biology and Psychology
- Physical therapy program at Washington University in St. Louis
It’s not just something in the water — though swimmer Holden Siena might say so. It’s because Augustana’s campus culture balances challenge with support, empowering students to pursue many interests and succeed.
"There truly is no place like Augustana. The commitment this school has to make sure everyone feels welcome and supported from the second you arrive on campus is second to none. This school also pushes you to succeed in every facet of your life, not just one or two."
Two-time Academic All-Americans in water polo Ocean Akau '25 and Charlotte Newport '25 each had one major, but added minors that further prepared them for their futures in law and applied behavior analysis.
Two-time Academic All-American and two-time national champion discus thrower Charlotte Frere ’26 will graduate in 2026 with a double major in biology and kinesiology — a great combination for an athlete who wants to connect athletic expertise with a career path.
Trio repeats as athletic/academic champs
Three student-athletes remain on top in their sport and studies — Charlotte Frere ’26, Charlotte Newport ’25 and Ocean Akau ’25. All three are repeat Academic All-American honorees, a feat achieved by only a few Vikings through the years.
Ocean Akau ’25
- Pana‘ewa, Hawai‘i, Academic All-American
- Water polo
- Psychology major, disability studies minor
- Graduate student, applied behavior analysis master’s program, Brigham Young
Charlotte Newport ’25
- Baytown, Texas, Academic All-American
- Water polo
- History major, with minors in psychology and Classical studies – Latin
- Law student at University of Texas
Charlotte Frere ’26
- Preemption, Ill., two-time Academic All-American (so far)
- Two-time national champion discus thrower
- Biology and kinesiology major
- Will graduate in 2026