Word that Vanguard University has received approval to begin the process of becoming a National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) Division II member has created a good deal of excitement on the school’s Costa Mesa, California, campus.
Long a National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) member, Vanguard has enjoyed plenty of athletic success, particularly in recent years. The move to NCAA Division II is expected to be complete come the 2026–27 academic year.
“I am certain this upward transition to NCAA D-II will benefit our student-athletes and entire community,” university President Michael J. Beals said in making the July 13 announcement. “NCAA D-II allows students to participate in highly competitive athletics with a strong commitment to balancing athletics, academics, and community engagement—all while allowing [Vanguard University] to remain true to our enduring Christ-centered mission and values.”…