WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. - Two Winston-Salem State University standouts from the outdoor track and field team are set to represent the Rams on track and field's biggest Division II stage, as Charnessa Reid and Rainn Sheppard have each secured qualifying marks for the NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Championships.

For Reid and Sheppard, the achievement is the result of months of steady progression, clutch performances, and consistency when it mattered most—cementing their place among the nation's elite Division II competitors.

Both ladies were huge contributors in helping the track and field team go back-to-back in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Outdoor Track and Field championships. Both Rams had multiple podium finishes including Sheppard winning the 800m.

Reid Continues to Shine in the Hurdles – Qualified in the 100m hurdles
Already well known across the CIAA and Atlantic Region, Charnessa Reid continued her dominance in the 100-meter hurdles, earning her qualifying position with a season-best 13.70. The senior's mark ranks at the top of Winston-Salem State's performance list and places her comfortably within NCAA Division II qualifying range.

Reid's outdoor season has been defined by consistency. She remained a fixture at the front of hurdle fields throughout the spring, combining clean technique with explosive speed out of the blocks. Her experience in championship stages has made her one of the Rams' most reliable scorers, both individually and as part of sprint relay units.

In addition to her hurdle's success, Reid has contributed in field events and relays, highlighting her versatility and leadership during her senior campaign.

Sheppard's Breakthrough Season in the Middle Distances – Qualified in the 800m
Sheppard has emerged as one of the top middle-distance runners in the Atlantic Region this outdoor season, delivering personal bests in both the 800 meters and 1,500 meters. Her season-best time of 2:08.38 in the 800 meters stands as the fastest mark on the Winston-Salem State roster and meets NCAA Division II qualifying standards, while her 4:31.94 in the 1,500 meters further underscores her range and endurance.

A junior, Sheppard has steadily lowered her times throughout the outdoor campaign, pairing tactical patience with a strong closing kick. Her performances not only positioned her among the program's top qualifiers but also helped anchor multiple relay squads during the championship portion of the season.

Sheppard's rise reflects a larger trend for the Rams' women's program, which has emphasized depth in the middle distances and relays—areas where Sheppard has played a central role both individually and as a teammate.

Representing WSSU on the National Stage
The NCAA Division II Outdoor Track and Field Championships bring together the top qualifiers from across the country, with competition spanning multiple days and events at Welch Stadium in Emporia, Kansas. Selections were based on verified marks recorded during the official outdoor qualifying window and released by the NCAA earlier this week.

For Winston-Salem State, Sheppard and Reid's qualifications reflect both individual excellence and the continued growth of the program on the national level. Their performances place WSSU alongside the strongest Division II programs in the country and provide valuable exposure for CIAA and HBCU athletes on a national platform.

As the championships approach, both Rams will look to carry their momentum forward, not only to compete, but to contend.

For all updates and live scoring during the events visit the www.wssurams.com website.