INDIANAPOLIS– Hillsdale College student-athlete Shea Ruddy has been selected as a finalist for the prestigious William V. Campbell Trophy, as announced by the National Football Foundation (NFF).
Often recognized as college football’s "Academic Heisman," the Campbell Trophy honors the nation's top college football student-athlete based on academic success, football performance, and exemplary community leadership.
Ruddy, a junior wide receiver and return specialist for the Chargers, is one of just 18 finalists chosen across all NCAA divisions (Division I FBS, FCS, Division II, and Division III) and the NAIA from a initial national field of 206 semifinalists. He stands as the sole representative from the Great Midwest and Region 3 among this year's honorees.
A native of Temperance, Michigan, Ruddy maintains a 3.72 cumulative GPA as a biochemistry major on a pre-medicine track. A two-time College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-American, two-time D2ADA Academic Achievement Award recipient, and three-time Academic All-G-MAC honoree, he plans to attend medical school following his undergraduate graduation in May 2027.
On the field, the team captain has established himself as one of the most versatile playmakers in Division II football. In 2025, Ruddy accomplished a rare national feat by becoming the only player across all levels of NCAA football to record a passing, rushing, receiving, and kick return touchdown in the same season.
Beyond his athletic and academic responsibilities, Ruddy serves actively in his community. He regularly volunteers in the emergency room and surgery department at Hillsdale Hospital, co-chairs the campus bone marrow registration drive, and serves as a mentor through local youth initiatives such as Victory Day and Book Buddies. His extensive civic engagement also earned him a spot on the 2025 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team.
By virtue of his selection as a finalist, Ruddy becomes a member of the 2026 NFF National Scholar-Athlete Class and will receive an $18,000 postgraduate scholarship.
Ruddy will be formally recognized during the 68th NFF Annual Awards Dinner Presented by Las Vegas on Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2026, at the Bellagio Resort & Casino. During the event, one of the 18 finalists will be named the winner of the 37th Campbell Trophy® and see their postgraduate scholarship increased to $25,000.