NCAA Division II: A New Era for Jimmies Athletics Begin
Jamestown, ND – Today, the University of Jamestown (UJ) Jimmies received official acceptance of its membership bid to join the NCAA Division II as part of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). This is a significant transition for UJ, marking a new era in collegiate sports and building upon its rich history
UJ has had a strong tradition of athletic excellence as a proud member of the NAIA for many years. UJ has decided, however, to affiliate with NCAA Division II and the NSIC as a strategic move to enhance its competitive edge and expand its reach, ensuring a promising future for the university and its student-athletes.
The NCAA Division II Membership Committee also approved a special waiver into the expedited membership process, which cuts the provisional time period from three years to two years.
UJ President Dr. Polly Peterson mentioned, “This is a special moment for us. We had to quickly transition while ensuring that our primary focus remained on academic excellence. Now, we are excited to bring our Jimmie pride and spirit to NCAA Division II and the NSIC with a commitment to fostering both athletic and academic achievement for our students.”
This transition aligns with recent developments at UJ as referenced in our previous story, “Here Comes the Sun” and the NCAA Division II Strategic Positioning Platform, which emphasizes learning, service, passion, balance, resourcefulness, and sportsmanship. As UJ plans its future as a robust NCAA member institution, it will emphasize these six areas to offer fair opportunities for student-athletes to excel in the classroom, on the field, and in their future careers as engaged community members.
Tim Downs, President of Minnesota State University Moorhead and NSIC Board of Directors Chair, noted, “The University of Jamestown has strategically developed into a comprehensive institution. They have dedicated resources towards the development of
competitive athletic programs; for this reason, we feel confident that University of Jamestown will be a very good addition to the NSIC.”
UJ’s shift also brings its teams closer to home, fostering local rivalries and enhancing community engagement. UJ Athletic Director Austin Hieb stated, “Joining the NSIC will not only provide our student-athletes with the opportunity to compete at a higher level, but also strengthen our ties with the local community, maintaining our commitment to academic excellence and community involvement.”
UJ’s transition into the NCAA Division II will officially begin in the 2025-26 academic year. While UJ will not be eligible for NCAA postseason play during its provisional period, it will have opportunities to compete in the conference postseason for various sports including men’s and women’s cross country, indoor and outdoor track, golf, and women’s swimming.
“We look forward to this new chapter in our history and extend a heartfelt thanks to all the hardworking staff, coaches, and student-athletes who have contributed to UJ’s athletic success thus far – and the support and guidance of the NSIC and NCAA in the process,” said Peterson.
About University of Jamestown
University of Jamestown is ranked as a “Best Regional University” in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report. Established as Jamestown College in 1883, UJ is a private, Christian, liberal arts university granting Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees as well as master’s degrees in Business, Education, Leadership, and Clinical Counseling. Doctoral degrees are available in Clinical Research, Character in Leadership and Physical Therapy. University of Jamestown Accelerated, UJ’s online division, is based in Phoenix and delivers intensive upskilling opportunities to learners in a variety of settings. For more information, please visit UJ.edu.
