WASHINGTON (October 13, 2026) – Howard University freshman outside hitter Addison Buckner (Menomonee Falls, Wis.) and graduate defensive back Kaleb Gallop (Portsmouth, Va.) were named McDonald's Athletes of the Month for September. The announcement came Tuesday afternoon.
 
Volleyball – Addison Buckner – Freshman – Menomonee Falls, Wis.
 
Buckner made her presence felt throughout September, tallying 100 kills and 68 digs across 11 matches. She delivered standout performances against UAlbany (Sept. 5) and Morgan State (Sept. 27), registering 16 kills in each matchup. Against Robert Morris (Sept. 11), Buckner showcased her defensive abilities, collecting a month-high 16 digs. She closed out September with a strong offensive showing at Morgan State, helping the Bison secure their first MEAC victory of the season.
 
Football – Kaleb Gallop – Graduate – Portsmouth, Va.
 
Gallop opened September with a dominant defensive performance against Richmond (Sept 5.), recording seven total tackles, including three solo stops, and helping hold the Spiders to just 113 yards of total offense. His efforts earned him Aeneas Williams Award HBCU Defensive Back of the Week honors. Against the reigning national champions, Indiana (Sep 12.), Gallop racked up seven more tackles, this time with four solo takedowns. Gallop ended the month with 20 total tackles.
 
HONORABLE MENTIONS
 
Noah Douglas (Men's Cross Country): Led the Bison to a season-opening victory with a 15:58.86 mark.
 
Daniil Kaban (Men's Soccer): Scored three goals in three-out-of-four games for the Bison.
 
Jordan Vaughn (Men's Swimming & Diving): Earned NEC Men's Rookie of the Week after beginning his collegiate career with a pair of top four finishes at the Potomac Relays.
 
Mira Martin (Women's Cross Country): Earned MEAC (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference) Female Runner of the Week.
 
For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at www.HUBison.com.