Further, the university’s administrators, head coaches, staff and student-athletes have exhibited a consistent alignment in their views of this outstanding university and its Division I future in athletics.” “From the beginning of our review, the Board of Directors quickly recognized the dynamic leadership of President Rudin, the institution’s strong academic record and its consistent athletic successes. “The presidents of the Southland Conference welcome Texas A&M-Commerce to the league and look forward to the university becoming a valued member of NCAA Division I,” McNeese State President and Southland Board of Directors Chair Dr. As we finalized our decision, it became evident that this exciting initiative is squarely aligned with our institutional mission to Educate, Discover, and Achieve.” Careful and thoughtful consideration was given to assessing the opportunity to compete at the highest level of intercollegiate athletics.

“This decision was made with feedback from several key constituent groups at the university – led by our student body leadership.

Rudin proclaimed in accepting the Southland’s invitation. “It is a distinct honor to join the Southland Conference,” Texas A&M-Commerce President Mark J. Nine months after putting pen to paper on their invitation paperwork, the Lions will begin a four-year transition into Division I and begin competition in the Southland in the 2022-23 academic year. FRISCO, Texas – The Southland Conference officially welcomes Texas A&M University-Commerce as the league’s ninth member on Friday.

Southland conference