The Mountain East Conference (MEC) has extended an invitation to Shawnee State University (SSU) to become its 12th full-time member, with official membership beginning in July 2026, pending NCAA Division II approval. Located in Portsmouth, Ohio, Shawnee State plans to compete in 19 MEC-sponsored sports, including football by the 2028 season. MEC Commissioner Reid Amos emphasized that SSU’s leadership and mission align well with the conference’s values and strategic goals.

Shawnee State, a public university with around 3,500 students, is recognized for its strong academic programs in game design, health, and engineering technologies. It currently competes in the River States Conference and will follow a transition path similar to Point Park University, which recently joined the MEC. SSU has a strong athletic history at the NAIA level, highlighted by national championships in men's basketball (2021) and women’s basketball (1999), and will continue offering all MEC championship sports.

University and conference leaders praised the move as a mutually beneficial step toward enhancing student-athlete experiences and strengthening the MEC. SSU President Dr. Eric Braun expressed enthusiasm about joining a league that shares the university’s values and commitment to excellence. Shawnee State will submit its NCAA Division II membership application by October 1, 2025, with plans to begin MEC competition in the 2026-27 season.

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