WC Missouri News

University of Central Missouri student-athletes Camden Taylor from Mules Football and Lauren Blake from Jennies Volleyball have been named the October 2025 Central Bank Student-Athletes of the Month.

Camden Taylor, a redshirt sophomore defensive lineman from St. Louis, Missouri, was recognized for his academic achievements and dedication in the classroom. According to his nominator, "In my more than ten years of teaching Managing Sport Events, he is the first student to receive a 100 percent on the midterm. Not only is he very diligent and consistently punctual, never missing a class or arriving late, but he also demonstrates exceptional work ethic, submitting high-quality homework on every occasion."

Lauren Blake, a junior opposite from Indianola, Iowa, was also honored for her commitment to academics. Her nominator stated, "Lauren is a stellar student. She is an active and engaged participant in class discussions. She brings a positive attitude and drive to her individual and team assignments. She is as dedicated to learning in the classroom as she is to her sport."

The Central Bank Student-Athlete of the Month award can be given to any current UCM student-athlete who is in good academic standing. Nominations are open to all faculty and staff members at the university. The selection process focuses on academic performance, engagement in class, and commitment to scholarship rather than athletic achievements.