It's been asked about off and on over the years—would, or when would, the University of Southern Indiana have a discussion about moving to NCAA Division I athletics? In fall 2021, that question was answered with "yes" and "now."
As part of the exploratory process, which began in Fall 2021, the Board received the results from across the campus community of an internal survey, which included more than 2,200 responses. Additionally, the Board received a report from the DI Exploratory Committee made up of 25 individuals representing the USI governance bodies, faculty, staff, students, alumni, student athletes, coaches and community members. Finally, the Board received information from external consultants on the national landscape in intercollegiate athletics, including conference realignments, the NCAA Constitutional Convention and their observations as experts in these arenas.
The vote
After a series of meetings both public and in executive session, to carefully review and consider committee findings and information, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously 9-0 on Monday, February 7, giving their approval for the University to make formal application for the reclassification from Division II to Division I.
Next steps
The morning of Wednesday, February 9 was bright and sunny and carried with it a buzz around the USI campus. An important announcement was happening in the Screaming Eagles Arena, declaring to the University community, as well as the state and the nation, which Division I conference would be our partner as we moved to the next step of reclassification. Students, athletes and coaches, faculty and staff, USI supporters and more gathered in the Arena, ready to witness the news. The crowd erupted into cheers and applause when USI President Dr. Ronald S. Rochon and Ohio Valley Commissioner Beth DeBauche stood to unveil the banner for the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC).
"There's a competitiveness at USI ... We stand with open arms to welcome you into the OVC community." — Beth DeBauche, Ohio Valley Conference Commissioner
USI will begin competing in the Ohio Valley Conference at the beginning of the 2022-23 academic year, but the transition to Division I will take four years to complete. During this time, USI athletic teams will be eligible for conference championships but ineligible for NCAA championships.
"What's good for USI is good for Evansville and the region. When there is success on this campus, there is success in our community." — Lloyd Winnecke, Mayor, City of Evansville
"This is a great day ... I challenge everyone to think about where we can go, how we can step up and be successful in this Division I conference." — Ron Romain, USI Board of Trustees Chairman
"We believe in the OVC. We believe Division I is the right spot for us." — Jon Mark Hall, USI Athletic Director
Though making the decision to move into Division I was a thorough and in-depth process, it is just the beginning of work before the University. From funding to prepping student athletes and coaches to evaluating facilities and more, it is an exciting time for USI as the University moves forward.
"I challenge all of those who support this University and this community and want to make them even better places, to join me in making a wise investment—to support this effort to enhance the reputation and visibility of USI and our community," said Ron Romain, USI Board of Trustees Chair. "I understand that supporting athletics may not be for everyone, and the foundation of this great institution is academic in nature, however, we believe this move to Division I will advance USI on all levels."
For more information on USI's move to Division I, visit usi.edu/WeDare.
Credits:
Elizabeth Randolph and Barbara J. Goodwin