Announcement about the Future of Athletics

After more than a year of analysis, the Board of Regents has voted to begin the multi-year process of transitioning the University’s intercollegiate athletic programs from Division I to Division III. The University will officially file its intent to move to Division III with the NCAA in January 2022. If approved, the University will work with the NCAA on the reclassification process, in preparation for active membership no later than September 1, 2025. During the multi-year transition to Division III, all student-athlete scholarships and coaching contracts will be honored.

As a result of careful consideration and extensive discussions, the Board determined that Division III’s approach to intercollegiate athletics better aligns with the University’s mission and goals of creating exceptional academic, co-curricular, and wellness experiences for all students. In its deliberations, the Board recognized the many ways in which generations of student-athletes and athletics alumni represent the University in and out of uniform and acknowledged the significant positive impact they have on our institution.