• The University of New Haven will join the Northeast Conference (NEC) and transition to NCAA Division I on July 1, 2025.
• The transition aims to enhance the university's brand recognition, enrollment, and align with its strategic objectives.
• The Chargers will be eligible for NCAA Championship competition in 2028-29 after completing the NCAA-mandated reclassification period.

The University of New Haven has accepted an invitation to become a full member of the Northeast Conference (NEC) and transition to NCAA Division I athletics. The transition will officially begin on July 1, 2025. This move marks a significant shift for the university, which has been a member of NCAA Division II and the Northeast-10 Conference since 2008. University leadership views this as an opportunity to enhance its brand, attract more students, and elevate its athletic programs. The university's athletic director and president expressed excitement about competing at the highest level and joining the NEC, with full Division I membership expected by 2028-29.

• What: The University of New Haven is transitioning from NCAA Division II to Division I and joining the Northeast Conference (NEC).
• Who: Key individuals involved include Commissioner Noreen Morris, University President Jens Frederiksen, Ph.D., Athletic Director Devin Crosby, and basketball coach Ted Hotaling.
• When: The transition begins on July 1, 2025. New Haven will become a full Division I member in 2028-29. Football's addition to the conference schedule is to be determined after 2025.
• Where: The University of New Haven is located in West Haven, Connecticut. The Northeast Conference consists of nine institutions located throughout six states.

The University of New Haven's move to Division I represents a strategic decision aimed at boosting the university's profile and attracting students. President Frederiksen emphasizes the importance of athletics as a driver of enrollment and brand recognition. While this move presents new opportunities, such as competing at a higher level and attracting a different caliber of recruit, it also entails significant investment in facilities and programs. The transition also impacts the Northeast-10 Conference, where New Haven was a long-standing member. The NEC welcomes New Haven as its tenth full-time member, recognizing the university's commitment to academics and athletic excellence. There will be a major renovation of its basketball facility, the Hazell Athletics Center, with “expanded viewing and seating areas.

"Making the move to Division I is a bold step, and we're honored that New Haven chose to take that step with us. From the start, it was clear that they share our values -- putting academics, competitive excellence and the student-athlete experience at the forefront."

"We are thrilled about this opportunity for the University of New Haven. Athletics has been and continues to be a vital driver of enrollment and brand recognition for the University. This move to the Northeast Conference and Division I positions the University for an exciting future – one consistent with the overall strategic focus on academic, professional and global return on investment."

"This is about positioning ourselves at the highest level. The University of New Haven's momentum under Jens Frederiksen’s leadership aligns naturally with our transition to NCAA Division I and the Northeast Conference. The Blue & Gold deserve this."

"When you’re the new kid on the block, I think a lot of people are wanting to schedule you," says Hotaling. "We’ll go through that process immediately and build on our schedule… Probably play some notable games."

The University of New Haven's transition to NCAA Division I and membership in the Northeast Conference marks a significant chapter in the university's history. While the transition period presents challenges, including facility upgrades and adjustments to a higher level of competition, the university anticipates long-term benefits in terms of brand recognition, enrollment, and athletic success. The move is viewed as a strategic investment in the university's future, aligning with its mission and goals. The full impact will be realized in 2028-29 when New Haven becomes eligible for NCAA Championship competition.