RICHMOND, Va. — December 7, 2025 — Virginia Union University Head Track & Field and Cross Country Coach Franck Charles '16 has been honored with the Triad of Excellence Award from the John W. Barco Alumni Chapter, recognizing his leadership, service, and outstanding commitment to the mission and values of Virginia Union University.

The Triad of Excellence Award celebrates individuals who go above and beyond in fostering growth and unity within both the university and the broader community. Recipients are recognized for their positive influence and for serving as role models for current students and alumni alike.

Charles, now in his leadership role guiding the Panthers' Track & Field and Cross Country programs, expressed appreciation for the honor and emphasized the collective effort behind the recognition.

"I am truly honored to receive this award from the John W. Barco Alumni Chapter. It is a privilege, and I want to thank the chapter for recognizing both myself and our Track & Field/Cross Country program for the hard work we put in on and off the field. I appreciate all of their support.

"Our student athletes have worked extremely hard this semester. We completed community service at Kings Dominion at least five times, and we also donated over 20 plus canned goods to support families in Haiti.

"We also had two of our athletes—Gabrielle Olukoya and Mychael Tucker—receive scholarships from the John W. Barco Alumni Chapter. Out of the top five students selected, we are blessed to have two of them from our team. I am extremely proud of them. Last year, two more of our athletes, Christal Rolack and Toni Middlebrooks, also earned Barco scholarships, and I want to congratulate them as well.

"Our coaching staff works hard to push our athletes not only in their sport, but also in the classroom. We emphasize academics and encourage them to pursue all scholarship opportunities—not just athletic ones—so they can finish their collegiate careers with as little student debt as possible and be fully prepared for the career or business they want after graduation.

"This award is not just about me; this award belongs to our entire Cross Country and Track & Field family. Without our athletes and coaches, none of this would be possible.

"Thank you again to the John W. Barco Alumni Chapter for shining a light on our program."

The John W. Barco Alumni Chapter established the Triad of Excellence Award to honor alumni who exemplify leadership, service, and scholarship while upholding the highest standards of the university community.

For more information on VUU Track & Field and Cross Country, visit VUUSports.com.