CORVALLIS, Ore. – The Cascade Collegiate Conference announced the recipient of the 2025-26 CCC Coach of Character of the Year award. College of Idaho head volleyball coach Liz Mendiola earned the honor.
Coaches who represent the NAIA’s core values, Respect, Responsibility, Integrity, Sportsmanship, and Servant Leadership, were nominated and selected by the conference’s athletic directors, and Mendiola has consistently exemplified these values throughout her career.
Now in her 25th season leading the College of Idaho volleyball program, Mendiola has built a lasting legacy centered on student-athlete development, servant leadership, and community engagement. Her impact extends far beyond competition, helping shape a culture that prioritizes personal growth, leadership, and service alongside athletic success.
In addition to her coaching responsibilities, Mendiola serves as the institution’s Senior Woman Leader and oversees the Association of Student-Athletes. Through these roles, she has helped organize and support initiatives that provide meaningful opportunities for student-athletes to engage with and serve their communities.
One of the most impactful programs she helps lead is the annual Special Olympics Idaho Field Day, which brings local special education programs to campus to participate alongside College of Idaho student-athletes. The event fosters inclusion, builds meaningful relationships, and provides student-athletes with a firsthand understanding of the importance of service and community involvement.
Mendiola has also become a strong advocate for student-athlete mental health. She played a key role in organizing a leadership development trip with the Jae Foundation, where student-athlete representatives from each athletic program learned strategies to support teammates and increase awareness surrounding mental health and suicide prevention. She further reinforces those lessons by bringing her entire volleyball team to Jae Foundation programming and hosting an annual awareness event designed to encourage open dialogue and support.
Her servant leadership is evident throughout the athletic department. Mendiola regularly volunteers for game-day responsibilities and operational duties outside of her own program, helping wherever needed. Whether assisting with event operations, facility improvements, or other department needs, she consistently models humility, accountability, and a team-first mindset.
Within her volleyball program, Mendiola has intentionally cultivated a culture built on trust, communication, and support. Through preseason bonding activities, post-practice recognition opportunities, and an emphasis on accountability and encouragement, she creates an environment where student-athletes feel valued and connected. Her leadership helps reduce internal competition, strengthen relationships, and foster a sense of shared purpose among her teams.
For 25 years, Mendiola has demonstrated what it means to be a Coach of Character, leaving a lasting impact on countless student-athletes through her commitment to leadership, service, and the holistic development of those she coaches.