Biola University has named approximately 1,500 students to the university's Dean's List for academic excellence. Biola students are placed on the Dean's List to honor those with a grade point average of 3.60 or higher while enrolled in 12 or more credit units and whose cumulative grade point average is at least a 3.20.

The following local residents received the award:

Nataleigh Maia of Culver City

Taylor Rapinchuk of Culver City

"Inclusion on the Biola Dean's List is an indication that this student is performing exceptionally well in a rigorous academic program," said Patricia Pike, vice provost for academic administration. "Our Dean's List students are bright, motivated, engaged, competent, and personable. They are already demonstrating the characteristics of success that results from applied intelligence and that will support future endeavors in society, community, career, and family life."

Biola University is a leading Christ-centered university in Southern California that offers a premier, nationally ranked education and has been named one of the nation's "up and coming" universities by U.S. News & World Report four times in five years.

For more information visit http://www.biola.edu. Or call (562) 777 - 4061.