Mt. Pleasant, IA – June 9, 2020 – On June 8, Iowa Wesleyan University informed the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) that it intends to apply for National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) membership. The University believes its mission, academic programs, geographic location, and commitment to quality athletics aligns with the philosophy and goals within the NAIA.
Our commitment to promoting the comprehensive development of our student-athletes and athletics being a significant component of the student’s overall educational experience fits well with the vision and mission of the NAIA.
In considering the changing landscape of higher education and the needs of our current and future student-athletes, we have found that the NAIA offers enhanced options beyond the NCAA, including student engagement and outreach, stronger scholarship opportunities, and regional competition. It will also provide more geographically appropriate competitive options that will reduce travel times and allow our student-athletes to complete their coursework and achieve their academic goals more easily.
Iowa Wesleyan looks forward to working with the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics during the inquiry and application process. Tiger Athletics will remain a member of the NCAA Division III, the St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SLIAC), and the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC), through the 2020-2021 academic year.