Located within the heart of the Midwestern United States, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is one of the distinguished institutions that make up the prestigious Big Ten Conference. The conference not only recognizes its student-athletes for their athletic prowess but also celebrates their academic achievements through the Big Ten Academic Awards. This recognition is granted to student-athletes who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance and dedication to their studies.

The Big Ten Academic All-Conference award is one of the most notable honors bestowed upon student-athletes in the conference. To qualify for this prestigious award, student-athletes must achieve a minimum grade-point average of 3.0 or higher and have at least one academic year of residence at their institution. The award is a testament to the student-athletes' commitment to balancing their academic and athletic responsibilities.

In 2018, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln had a total of 137 student-athletes who received the Big Ten Academic All-Conference award. Among these individuals was Madi Kubik, a standout freshman volleyball player who maintains a 3.895 GPA in biological sciences. Another notable example is Jordan Ernst, a senior volleyball player with a 3.688 GPA in psychology. These student-athletes exemplify the high academic standards that the University of Nebraska–Lincoln holds its students to.

To further recognize the academic excellence of its student-athletes, the Big Ten Conference also presents the Distinguished Scholar Award. This award is given to student-athletes who have achieved a minimum grade-point average of 3.7 or higher for the academic year. This honor is the highest academic recognition offered by the conference, and it showcases the academic prowess of its recipients.

As a testament to its commitment to academic excellence, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's Tom Osborne Citizenship Team annually selects student-athletes for the prestigious Big Ten Outstanding Sportsmanship Award. The award is presented to student-athletes who have demonstrated exceptional sportsmanship and integrity on and off the field. This honor highlights the well-rounded nature of Big Ten student-athletes and reinforces the importance of academic and personal achievements.

Nebraska student-athletes are able to achieve these impressive academic feats through the support of the university's state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge programs. The University of Nebraska–Lincoln's Center for Athletic and Student Excellence provides a comprehensive framework of academic support services, enabling student-athletes to reach their full potential. By understanding the deep relationships between academia, athletics, and community involvement, the university is well-equipped to develop exceptional student-athletes.

In conclusion, the Big Ten Academic Awards provide a glimpse into the outstanding academic accomplishments of student-athletes within the conference. With various recognition programs and rigorous academic standards, the Big Ten Conference reinforces the importance of academic excellence among its student-athletes. As we continue to travel through Nebraska, it is essential to recognize and appreciate the exceptional student-athletes that reside within the region.

Big Ten Academic Awards are more than just an indication of academic prowess; they reflect a student-athlete's unwavering commitment to achieving excellence in multiple facets. The award marks an important milestone in a student-athlete's life, reflecting the skills they have honed to reach the highest possible standards in both their athletic and academic careers.

The numerous accolades won by Nebraska's student-athletes have showcased to their counterparts the rewards that are in store for them when they push their academic and athletic boundaries.