Ursuline Fights Expulsion From Athletic Conference Post-Merger

Ursuline College is contesting its expulsion from the Great Midwest Athletic Conference (G-MAC) following its merger with Cleveland State University. The college received notification of its removal from the conference on July 1, 2026, with the expulsion to take effect at the end of the 2026-27 academic year. Ursuline argues that its merger, which resulted in the discontinuation of its athletic programs as a distinct entity, does not violate conference bylaws and that the expulsion sets a problematic precedent for other institutions undergoing similar structural changes.

The G-MAC's decision to expel Ursuline has drawn criticism from some who believe it creates a negative precedent in a landscape of frequent college mergers, acquisitions, and closures. Ursuline's leadership has stated its intention to appeal the decision, emphasizing its long-standing commitment to athletic competition and its student-athletes. The college maintains that the merger was a strategic move to enhance academic offerings and resources, not an attempt to circumvent athletic conference regulations. The appeal process is expected to involve further discussions with conference officials and potentially a formal hearing.

Ursuline College, a private Catholic institution founded in 1922, has been a member of the G-MAC since 2013. The merger with Cleveland State University, a public institution, was announced in late 2025 and finalized in early 2026. This consolidation aims to leverage the strengths of both institutions, particularly in areas of graduate education and research, while ensuring the continuation of undergraduate programs. The athletic departments of both Ursuline and Cleveland State were integrated, leading to the discontinuation of Ursuline's independent athletic teams.