James Madison University to join American Conference

James Madison University (JMU) has been accepted into the American Conference and will begin full membership no later than July 1, 2028. The decision follows a unanimous vote by the American Conference Board of Directors and its CEOs after a comprehensive due diligence process.

As part of the transition, JMU will move 17 of its 18 varsity sports to the American Conference, while women’s field hockey will remain in the Mid-American Conference. Reports indicate the university will pay approximately $23 million to enter the American Conference and $5 million to exit the Sun Belt Conference, with funding reportedly covered by private sources and new corporate partners.

The move follows JMU’s successful recent years, including a Sun Belt football championship and a berth in the College Football Playoff. American Conference Commissioner Tim Pernetti stated that the university represents the values of the conference and possesses a rapidly growing national brand.