Elon University and Queens University of Charlotte have announced an intent to merge, a significant move in higher education that raises complex questions about the future of their separate NCAA Division I athletic departments. The proposed merger, which would see the larger Elon University operate Queens, creates a rare situation where two D-I schools under a single administration must decide the fate of their distinct sports programs.
Key Takeaways
- Elon University and Queens University of Charlotte plan to merge, with Elon assuming operational control.
- Both universities currently operate independent NCAA Division I athletic programs in different conferences.
- The merger creates uncertainty about whether the two athletic departments will remain separate, combine, or be restructured.
- Officials state both departments will operate independently for now, but long-term decisions on branding and conference alignment are pending.
Details of the Proposed University Merger
The announcement outlines a plan where Elon University, located in Burlington, North Carolina, will effectively integrate Queens University of Charlotte. While termed a merger, the structure gives Elon a significant controlling interest, including a majority of board seats in the new combined entity. This move is part of a growing trend in higher education where smaller, tuition-dependent private schools partner with larger institutions to ensure financial stability and growth.
For Elon, the merger provides a strategic foothold in Charlotte, a major metropolitan area. This expansion offers access to a new market for graduate programs, valuable real estate, and established civic connections. For Queens, partnering with the financially stronger Elon provides a solution to long-term institutional challenges.
According to the universities, a two-month listening tour with students, alumni, and staff is underway. The boards of both institutions are expected to vote on the final parameters of the partnership in November 2024.
A Trend in Higher Education
University mergers and acquisitions have become more common as institutions face demographic shifts and financial pressures. Notable recent examples include Delaware State University's acquisition of Wesley College in 2021 and Boston College's takeover of Pine Manor College in 2020. The formation of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) from the merger of UT-Brownsville and UT-Pan American also serves as a precedent.
The Division I Athletics Question
The most unique aspect of this merger is the status of the two athletic departments. Both Elon and Queens compete at the NCAA Division I level, but in different conferences and with different sports offerings. This creates a complex situation that lacks significant precedent in modern D-I athletics.
Contrasting Athletic Profiles
Elon University's athletic department has a more established D-I history. The Elon Phoenix compete in the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) and sponsor a football program. In contrast, Queens University recently completed its reclassification to Division I. The Queens Royals compete in the ASUN Conference and do not have a football team.
Key Athletic Differences
- Elon University (Phoenix): Competes in the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA), sponsors football.
- Queens University (Royals): Competes in the ASUN Conference, recently reclassified to D-I, does not sponsor football.
ASUN Commissioner Jeff Bacon has stated that the current plan is for both institutions to continue operating their athletic departments independently. However, reports also indicate that critical decisions regarding conference alignment and branding will be made this fall, suggesting the current structure may not be permanent.
Uncertainty and Potential Outcomes
While officials have assured stability for current athletes and staff, the long-term vision remains unclear. The official merger website states that "Elon University will operate Queens," but does not specifically detail the future of athletics. This has led to speculation about several potential scenarios.
Maintaining two separate, fully-funded D-I athletic departments under one university is considered unlikely by many analysts due to the significant costs associated with D-I competition. While some non-D-I university systems, like those in Pennsylvania, have been allowed by the NCAA to maintain separate athletic programs post-merger, the financial demands of Division I present a different challenge.
"Details on conference alignment/branding will be determined this fall."
The central question is whether the merged institution will support two D-I brands, consolidate them into a single athletic program under the Elon banner, or create a new, unified identity. Each path involves complex negotiations with conferences, the NCAA, and stakeholders from both universities.
Historical Precedent and Future Implications
There are few direct comparisons for a merger involving two D-I athletic programs. One historical example, though dated, is the creation of Case Western Reserve University. Before their athletic programs fully merged in 1970, the Case Institute of Technology and Western Reserve University had independent teams. However, by the time of the merger, both were competing at a lower level than today's Division I.
The Case Western Reserve Example
The merger of Case Institute of Technology and Western Reserve University took place over 50 years ago. Before their football teams combined in 1970, Western Reserve had a notable history, including a winning record against Ohio State and a Sun Bowl appearance in 1941. However, the landscape of college sports and higher education finance has changed dramatically since then, making it an imperfect comparison for the Elon-Queens situation.
Given the current financial realities of college athletics, it is plausible that by 2035, Elon and Queens will not be fielding two completely independent D-I athletic departments. The decisions made in the coming months will likely be influenced more by academic, business, and governance priorities than by athletic tradition alone.
The outcome of the Elon-Queens merger will be closely watched by other D-I institutions facing similar financial or strategic challenges. It could establish a new blueprint for how universities consolidate operations while managing the complexities of high-level collegiate sports. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, this merger may be the first of many such arrangements that reshape college athletics.
