Orono, Maine -- The University of Maine has been awarded the 2020-21 Walter Harrison Academic Cup after achieving a record-setting institutional grade point average of 3.62, the highest GPA recorded in league history.

"Congratulations to Maine and each of our member institutions and student-athletes on such an impressive academic year," said America East Commissioner, Amy Huchthausen. "The success our student-athletes collectively attain in the classroom this year while managing challenges related to the pandemic is truly impressive. They continue to raise the bar every year."

The Walter Harrison Academic Cup is presented annually to the America East institution whose student-athletes post the highest grade point average during that academic year. The 2020-21 Academic Cup title marks Maine's third time winning the award and its first time capturing the accolade since the 2006-07 season.

The Black Bears also earned five individual sport GPA titles, the most of any America East program. Women's Basketball posted a 3.92 mark, the highest of any America East team in any sport. Field Hockey (3.70), Women's Soccer (3.84), Women's Swimming & Diving (3.67), and Men's Track & Field (3.47) were also awarded individual sport GPA titles.

The Academic Cup, established by the America East Board of Directors in 1995, was named for long time University of Hartford President Walter Harrison last year.

-UMaine-