The University of Hartford Board of Regents voted today to transition the University’s athletics programs from NCAA Division I to Division III.
The decision comes after a year of discussion and study of the current athletics model and several alternatives, as well as the review of a report from an on-campus task force comprising coaches, staff, faculty, alumni, and a member of the Board; financial information related to current athletics operations; and a review conducted by a nationally recognized athletics consulting firm.
“Intercollegiate athletics has long been an integral part of the University of Hartford student experience and that will not change,” said University of Hartford Board of Regents chair David Gordon. “At the same time, a move to Division III will allow the University to further strengthen the academic, co-curricular, and wellness experience for all students. While we know this decision will disappoint some members of our community, we remain confident that this shift is in the best long-term interests of the institution and all its students.”
“The University of Hartford owes so much to the generations of student-athletes and athletics staff who have added immeasurably to our community and are a source of pride for the University,” said University of Hartford President Gregory S. Woodward. “As we transition to this new model for intercollegiate athletics in the coming years, I am energized by the opportunities we will have to support the success of all of our students, including our student-athletes.”
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 in Division III no later than September 1, 2025. During this transition, all student-athlete scholarships and coaching contracts will be honored.
###
Spread across seven dynamic schools and colleges, the University of Hartford has been guiding the purpose and passion of students for over six decades. On our 350-acre campus alongside Connecticut’s capital city, approximately 4,600 undergraduate and 2,000 graduate students representing 49 states and 47 countries come together for a common purpose: to collaborate across different disciplines, diversify perspectives, and broaden worldviews. We’re a four-year private university focused on advancing the public good through meaningful connections within our communities. The University of Hartford joined NCAA Division I during the 1984-85 academic year and currently fields 17 men’s and women’s athletic teams. Our unique approach to comprehensive education gives us the critical perspectives that lead to impactful change, regionally and beyond. With degree programs spanning the arts, humanities, business, engineering and technology, education, and health professions, we focus on doing the work that matters. For more information, visit hartford.edu.