USCAA Announces New Members for 2026-27
PITTSBURGH, PA -- The United States Collegiate Athletic Association and its Board of Directors announced on Wednesday the addition of nine new members for the 2026-27 academic year: Alice Lloyd College, Harrisburg Area Community College, Hocking College, and Kean University Jersey City were granted full membership within the USCAA and are immediately championship eligible, while URBE University, Lighthouse Christian College, Grace University (CA), and Northern Maine Community College were all granted exploratory membership. Lackawanna College will be joining as an Affiliate Per Sport Member and declaring women’s and men’s soccer.
Alice Lloyd College
“I am excited to welcome Alice Lloyd College to the USCAA”, says USCAA CEO, BJ Bertges. “Their strong commitment to student success, leadership development, and providing meaningful athletic opportunities will be a great addition to our Association, and we look forward to seeing their student-athletes compete and thrive.”
Alice Lloyd College, located in Pippa Passes, Kentucky, has built a strong tradition of providing educational and athletic opportunities for students throughout the Appalachian region. The Eagles sponsor a broad range of intercollegiate sports, including baseball, basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, track & field, softball, volleyball, cheerleading, esports, and tennis, while formerly competing at the NAIA and NCCAA levels. Moving forward, they look to maintain their membership with the NCCAA and will compete as a dual affiliate. Known for its commitment to student success, leadership development, and service, Alice Lloyd College emphasizes a holistic student-athlete experience that extends beyond competition and into the classroom and community. With a growing athletics program, quality facilities, and a history of national postseason participation, the Eagles continue to create opportunities for student-athletes to excel academically, athletically, and personally.
Harrisburg Area Community College
The Harrisburg Area Community College (HACC) Hawks represent one of Pennsylvania's largest and most recognized community colleges, serving students across multiple campuses throughout Central Pennsylvania. HACC is committed to providing student-athletes with opportunities for academic achievement, personal growth, and competitive success while fostering leadership, teamwork, and community engagement. The Hawks sponsor intercollegiate athletics in men's and women's basketball, soccer, cross country, women's volleyball, and esports. Through its emphasis on student success both in the classroom and in competition, HACC continues to create meaningful opportunities for student-athletes to develop as leaders and achieve their educational goals.
Bertges says, “HACC’s commitment to academic achievement, student growth, and competitive excellence makes them a strong addition to our Association, and we look forward to the opportunities their student-athletes will have to lead, compete, and succeed both on and off the field.”
Hocking College
Hocking College, located in Nelsonville, Ohio, is a public institution known for its hands-on educational approach and commitment to preparing students for career success. Founded in 1968, the college serves a diverse student population through innovative academic programs, experiential learning opportunities, and a vibrant campus community.
The Hawks athletic program provides student-athletes with opportunities to compete at a high level while emphasizing academic achievement, leadership development, sportsmanship, and community engagement. Through a growing athletics department and a mission focused on balancing competitive excellence with educational success, Hocking College continues to create meaningful opportunities for students to excel in the classroom, in competition, and throughout their personal and professional lives.
“I am pleased to welcome Hocking College to the USCAA,” said Bertges. “Their commitment to expanding student engagement, supporting academic success, and building a sustainable athletics program will provide meaningful opportunities for their student-athletes, and we look forward to their continued growth and success within the Association.”
Jarrod Tudor, Executive Vice President & Chief Academic Officer as well as Director of Athletics, added: “Hocking College is excited to become a new member of the USCAA. Membership in the USCAA will provide our student-athletes with numerous opportunities for competition, sportsmanship, leadership, and growth.”
Kean University – Jersey City
“Kean University Jersey City’s decision to join the USCAA reflects a thoughtful and strategic approach to expanding athletic opportunities in a way that best serves its students and campus community”, says Bertges. “The USCAA continues to be a home for institutions navigating similar multi-campus or evolving athletic models, and we are proud to provide a competitive and supportive environment where Kean Jersey City’s student-athletes in men’s basketball and women’s soccer can thrive academically, athletically, and personally.”
Kean University Jersey City sought USCAA membership as part of a strategic initiative to expand student engagement, access, and athletic opportunities within its growing urban campus. While Kean University's Union campus will continue competing at the NCAA Division III level, Kean Jersey City seeks to establish a competitive and sustainable athletics model that aligns with its unique student population and institutional mission. Serving a diverse community that includes many commuter, first-generation, and nontraditional students, the campus views athletics as a powerful tool for fostering belonging, leadership development, wellness, and student success. Through participation in the USCAA with men's basketball and women's soccer, Kean Jersey City aims to provide meaningful competitive opportunities while supporting academic achievement and creating a positive, development-focused student-athlete experience.
When asked about membership, Vice President of Athletics & Recreation, Kelly Williams had this to say, "Kean University Athletics is proud to expand its presence on the Jersey City campus by gaining membership in the United States Collegiate Athletic Association. The addition of women's soccer and men's basketball to USCAA competition brings exciting championship opportunities for student-athletes on the Jersey City campus."
URBE University
“Joining the United States Collegiate Athletic Association marks a historic milestone for URBE University Athletics,” said Dr. Raymond Lopez, Athletic Director at URBE. “This membership provides our student-athletes with the opportunity to compete on a national stage while reinforcing our commitment to academic excellence, leadership development, and community engagement. For our coaches, it opens new avenues for growth and collaboration, and for our campus community, it represents a source of pride and a significant step forward in building a culture of excellence both in the classroom and in competition.”
URBE University, located in Miami, Florida, is a growing institution committed to preparing students for success through innovative academic programs and a student-centered educational experience. The Tigers athletic program reflects the university’s dedication to developing leadership, discipline, teamwork, and personal growth through intercollegiate competition.
Recently launching varsity athletics, URBE has established programs in men’s basketball and cross country, with plans for continued growth as the department expands opportunities for student engagement and campus involvement. Serving a diverse student population, including many international and non-traditional students, URBE University uses athletics as a catalyst for building community, fostering school pride, and enhancing the overall student experience. Through its commitment to academic excellence and competitive opportunity, the Tigers are building a strong foundation for future success both in the classroom and in competition.
“I am excited to welcome URBE University into the USCAA exploratory membership process,” said Bertges. “As a growing institution with a newly established athletics program, URBE represents the kind of forward-thinking campus that benefits from the USCAA model. We look forward to working with their leadership as they continue to build opportunities for student-athletes in men’s basketball and cross country while fostering engagement, school pride, and a strong foundation for long-term success”.
Lighthouse Christian College
Lighthouse Christian College, located in the Pensacola, Florida area, is a faith-based institution committed to providing students with opportunities for academic, athletic, and personal growth in a Christ-centered environment. The Makos athletic program has experienced rapid growth since its launch, creating competitive opportunities for student-athletes while emphasizing character development, leadership, and service. Sponsoring sports including football, baseball, basketball, and additional emerging programs, Lighthouse College utilizes athletics as a vehicle to foster discipline, teamwork, and community engagement. Through its commitment to student success and a mission-driven approach to intercollegiate athletics, Lighthouse Christian College continues to build a culture where student-athletes can thrive in the classroom, in competition, and in their faith.
Athletic Director, Ricky Broxson stated, "We are honored and excited to become a member of the USCAA family. This partnership represents a tremendous opportunity for Lighthouse Christian College and will provide significant benefits for our student-athletes, coaches, and institution as a whole. We believe that competing in the USCAA will enhance the collegiate experience for our athletes through increased competition, national exposure, and championship opportunities, while also supporting our mission of developing leaders of character, faith, and excellence both on and off the field of play. We look forward to building meaningful relationships and contributing to the continued growth and success of the USCAA."
Bertges followed up to say, “Having Lighthouse Christian College enter the USCAA at the exploratory level allows us to provide them guidance throughout the academic year and ensure they have all the right mechanisms in place to become a full member in the future.
Grace University
Grace University, located in Pomona, California, is a private Christian institution dedicated to developing students academically, athletically, and spiritually. Launching intercollegiate athletics in 2026, the Talons are building a dynamic and forward-thinking athletic department designed to provide student-athletes with opportunities for competitive excellence, leadership development, and personal growth. Grace University sponsors sports including men's basketball, baseball, men's soccer, women's flag football, and women's beach volleyball, while competing in the USCAA and the California Collegiate Alliance. Guided by a mission-driven approach and a commitment to preparing students for success beyond graduation, Grace University is creating an environment where student-athletes can thrive in the classroom, in competition, and within their communities.
“Grace University will be a great addition to the USCAA as we continue to expand our reach to the west coast” says Bertges. “I look forward to working with them through their exploratory year to ensure long-term growth and success.
“We are truly honored and grateful to officially join the United States Collegiate Athletic Association”, says Athletic Director, Les Bean. “As we prepare to launch our inaugural athletics program, USCAA membership represents much more than competitive opportunities, it provides a platform for our student-athletes to grow academically, athletically, spiritually, and personally while competing on a national stage. We sincerely appreciate the support and confidence shown by the USCAA leadership and membership, and we are excited to begin this new chapter as proud members of the USCAA family”.
Northern Maine Community College
Northern Maine Community College, located in Presque Isle, Maine, is dedicated to providing accessible, high-quality education and opportunities that support student success both in and out of the classroom. As a rural community college, NMCC views athletics as an important component of student engagement, recruitment, retention, and personal development. The college is committed to building a competitive and sustainable intercollegiate athletics program that complements its academic mission while fostering leadership, teamwork, and school pride. Through participation in the USCAA, Northern Maine Community College will provide meaningful competitive opportunities for student-athletes, enhance campus life, and create pathways for growth that align with the institution's values and long-term strategic vision.
“The addition of Northern Maine Community College will further strengthen the USCAA footprint in Maine and help ensure long-term membership in that region, says Bertges.
Interim Athletic Director, Logan Halvorson adds, "We are incredibly excited to join the USCAA and become part of a community that values student growth, opportunity, and competition. This is an important step for Northern Maine Community College as we continue to expand opportunities for our students both inside and outside the classroom. As we begin building our athletic programs, we look forward to providing student-athletes with meaningful opportunities to compete, develop leadership skills, and build lasting connections. We are honored to join the USCAA family and are excited about the opportunities ahead."
Lackawanna College
Lackawanna College’s athletic program is set to join the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA) as a per-sport member, sponsoring both men’s and women’s soccer. This membership will provide the Falcons with a structured national platform designed to support competitive balance, student-athlete development, and postseason opportunity, while aligning with the college’s existing athletic framework and its desire to transition to NCAA Division II.
By participating in USCAA soccer, Lackawanna will expand its competitive landscape, offering its men’s and women’s soccer programs additional opportunities for regional and national competition against similarly aligned institutions. This move reinforces the college’s commitment to enhancing the student-athlete experience while maintaining a sustainable, development-focused approach to intercollegiate athletics.
“Lackawanna College’s move to join the USCAA as a per-sport member for men’s and women’s soccer reflects an innovative approach to expanding competitive opportunities on a sport-by-sport basis,” said Bertges. “This model allows institutions to strategically enhance individual programs while maintaining alignment with their broader athletic vision. We are excited to provide a national platform that supports competitive balance, postseason opportunity, and continued student-athlete development for the Falcons’ soccer programs.”
“We are honored to be accepted as an affiliate member of the USCAA for the upcoming season. During this period of transition for our college, the USCAA has graciously provided our student-athletes with the opportunity to compete for championships and enjoy a first-rate postseason experience. The USCAA’s member-driven, future-focused approach aligns perfectly with our values at Lackawanna College, and we can’t wait to get on the pitch and begin competing,” said Will Flannery, Head Men’s Soccer Coach.
About the USCAA
The primary goal of the USCAA is to provide members with an Association that is devoted to the growth, vision, and values of their institutions. The USCAA’s focus is to enhance member institutions through athletics. The association intends to achieve this goal by providing opportunities for small colleges to compete on an equal level of competition with schools of similar size and athletic programs. The USCAA conducts 17 National Championships, names All-Americans, recognizes scholar athletes, and promotes USCAA member schools in various ways. The USCAA believes that the integrity and credibility of the Association and its members are paramount in accomplishing its goal.