BRIDGEPORT — The NCAA Division II Membership Committee accepted Shawnee State University into the expedited provisional membership process, as announced Tuesday.

Shawnee State will begin competition in the Mountain East Conference during the 2026-27 academic year.

Throughout the 2026-27 and 2027-28 seasons, the Bears will participate in the league on a provisional basis as part of the NCAA Division II membership transition process.

“We are thrilled that Shawnee State has been accepted into the NCAA Division II expedited membership process,” said MEC Commissioner Reid Amos. “Throughout our league’s membership process and their application process with the NCAA, Shawnee State has demonstrated a clear alignment with the conference’s priorities and shared commitment to excellence. Expanding our presence in Ohio is an exciting step for the MEC, and we look forward to Shawnee State’s impact as a competitive and valued member. We are pleased that Shawnee State is continuing its successful transition to NCAA Division II.”

“This is a big moment for Shawnee State and this community,” Shawnee State Athletic Director Gerald Cadogan said. “There were a lot of people behind the scenes working hard to get to this moment. This transition is an opportunity for our athletes to compete on a broader scale and enables Shawnee State to broaden our reach beyond this region.”

Upon successful completion of the two-year provisional period at the end of 2027-28, Shawnee State will attain full NCAA Division II membership.

“This is a new day for Shawnee State Athletics, our students, and our community,” SSU President Eric Braun said. “We are providing student-athletes increased opportunities to earn nationally-recognized degrees while competing at the NCAA Division II level. Elevating our programs, including athletics, continues to be a source of pride and accomplishment for Shawnee State University students and our region.”

The move marks the end of Shawnee State’s long-standing affiliation with the NAIA, which had served as the university’s competitive home since athletics were introduced in 1988-89. During its NAIA tenure, Shawnee State captured national titles in men’s basketball, women’s basketball and men’s indoor track and field and produced more than 90 NAIA All-Americans.

Shawnee State University will become the 12th member of the Mountain East Conference, joining Charleston, Concord, Davis & Elkins, Fairmont State, Frostburg State, Glenville State, Point Park, West Liberty, West Virginia State, West Virginia Wesleyan and Wheeling.