Texas A&M University-Texarkana Accepted into NCAA Division II

TEXARKANA, Texas – The Texas A&M University-Texarkana Athletic Department is moving from the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) into membership in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II. The official word came at around 9:50 a.m. CST with a phone call from NCAA representatives to University President Dr. Ross Alexander and Director of Athletics Ryan Wall.

"We are thrilled to formally announce that we have been accepted into NCAA Division II athletics," said Texas A&M University-Texarkana President Dr. Ross Alexander. "I want to commend Director of Athletics Ryan Wall and his staff for a job well done throughout the lengthy application process. Today's announcement is another example of the ascendancy of A&M-Texarkana. Membership in NCAA Division II will allow us to continue to recruit high-quality student-athletes, will allow them to compete at a higher level, and elevate the game day experience for the student body and the entire community."

 "We are incredibly grateful to the NCAA for approving A&M Texarkana to begin its transition to NCAA Division II membership. This is a historic milestone for our university and a testament to the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of so many people," said Director of Athletics Ryan Wall.

I want to sincerely thank everyone who helped make this achievement possible. Our faculty, staff, coaches, and campus partners have invested countless hours into this process, and their commitment has been instrumental in reaching this point. I also want to express my sincere appreciation to President Dr. Ross Alexander for his vision, leadership, and unwavering support throughout this journey. His commitment to the growth of our university has made this opportunity a reality. This is only the beginning. We are building something special at A&M Texarkana, and our future is incredibly bright. We look forward to competing at the NCAA Division II level while continuing to provide an outstanding experience for our student-athletes and representing our university and community with pride."

 The full transition into NCAA Division II is a process that takes multiple years, as institutions must attain a conference affiliation as well as meet stringent compliance, facilities, budget, and financial aid requirements. Prior to the NCAA application deadline, the University secured an invitation to compete in the Lone Star Conference, considered one of the premier athletic conferences in Division II. The transition process typically takes three years to complete, although the NCAA now offers an expedited, two-year process for universities that are already adhering to the NCAA's rigorous standards. A&M-Texarkana officials are working diligently to put the University in a favorable position to be granted the expedited transition period.