The HBCU Athletic Conference continues to expand.
Jarvis Christian University was approved for membership in the HBCUAC, the conference announced on Tuesday.
The university, which is currently in the Red River Athletic Conference, will join as the league’s 16th member beginning in the 2026–27 academic year, an expansion that makes the HBCUAC the largest HBCU athletic conference in the nation.
The announcement came during a press conference featuring HBCUAC Commissioner Kiki Baker Barnes, Jarvis Christian University President Glenell M. Lee-Pruitt and Athletic Director Bobby Ladner.
“Jarvis Christian University is a distinguished institution with a proud legacy of academic excellence and community impact,” Barnes said in a statement. “We are thrilled to welcome JCU into the HBCUAC family.”
Barnes said the addition strengthens the conference’s mission and competitive landscape.
“Their membership strengthens our conference’s commitment to providing HBCU student-athletes with the highest level of competition, collaboration and opportunity,” she said. “This is a proud day for our entire conference.”
Lee-Pruitt called the move historic as the university approaches its 115th year.
“Moving to become a part of the HBCUAC is historical in its precedence,” Lee-Pruitt said. “It allows for increased camaraderie and competition with institutions that reflect missions and visions aligned with our own. This is exciting indeed.”
Ladner said the move aligns with the university’s goals for athletic growth and student-athlete development.
“This new HBCU Athletic Conference is built upon equality, fair competition and collaboration,” Ladner said. “It is a culture that fits Jarvis and allows us to better serve our student-athletes. We are excited for this opportunity.”
