Great Lakes Valley Conference

Overview

The Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) is an intercollegiate athletic conference affiliated with the NCAA's Division II. Established in 1978, the GLVC is composed of member institutions primarily located in the Midwestern United States, particularly in the states surrounding the Great Lakes region. The conference is headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, and is known for its strong emphasis on both academic and athletic excellence.

History

The GLVC was founded with the goal of providing a competitive platform for colleges and universities in the Great Lakes region. Initially, the conference consisted of six charter members: Ashland University, Bellarmine University, Indiana State University–Evansville (now the University of Southern Indiana), Kentucky Wesleyan College, Saint Joseph's College, and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Over the years, the conference has expanded and contracted, with numerous institutions joining and leaving the conference.

The GLVC has played a significant role in the development of Division II athletics, often serving as a proving ground for institutions that eventually transition to Division I. The conference has been instrumental in promoting the values of sportsmanship, integrity, and community engagement among its member institutions.

Membership

The membership of the GLVC has evolved considerably since its inception. As of the current academic year, the conference includes 14 full-time member institutions. These schools are located across Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, and Missouri. The diversity of the member institutions, ranging from large public universities to smaller private colleges, contributes to the rich competitive landscape of the conference.

Current Members

- Drury University - Lewis University - Lindenwood University - Maryville University - McKendree University - Missouri University of Science and Technology - Quincy University - Rockhurst University - Southwest Baptist University - Truman State University - University of Illinois Springfield - University of Indianapolis - University of Missouri–St. Louis - William Jewell College

Former Members

Over the years, several institutions have left the GLVC to pursue other opportunities or to transition to Division I. Notable former members include:

- Bellarmine University - Northern Kentucky University - University of Southern Indiana

Sports and Championships

The GLVC sponsors championships in a wide range of sports, providing student-athletes with opportunities to compete at a high level while pursuing their academic goals. The conference is known for its competitive balance and has produced numerous national champions and All-Americans.

Men's Sports

The GLVC sponsors the following men's sports:

- Baseball - Basketball - Cross Country - Football - Golf - Soccer - Swimming and Diving - Tennis - Track and Field - Wrestling

Women's Sports

The GLVC sponsors the following women's sports:

- Basketball - Cross Country - Golf - Lacrosse - Soccer - Softball - Swimming and Diving - Tennis - Track and Field - Volleyball

Academic and Athletic Excellence

The GLVC places a strong emphasis on the academic success of its student-athletes. Member institutions are committed to providing a supportive environment that fosters both athletic and academic achievement. The conference regularly recognizes student-athletes who excel in the classroom through its All-Academic Teams and the Council of Presidents' Academic Excellence Awards.

Athletically, the GLVC is known for its competitive programs that consistently perform well at the national level. The conference has a rich tradition of success in sports such as basketball, soccer, and track and field, with several teams and individuals earning national championships and honors.

Governance and Administration

The GLVC is governed by a Council of Presidents, which is composed of the presidents of each member institution. The council is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the conference and ensuring that it adheres to its core values and mission. The day-to-day operations of the conference are managed by a Commissioner, who is supported by a team of administrators and staff.

The conference also has several committees that focus on specific areas such as compliance, championships, and student-athlete welfare. These committees play a crucial role in shaping the policies and procedures of the GLVC.

Community Engagement and Outreach

The GLVC is committed to community engagement and outreach, encouraging its member institutions to actively participate in initiatives that benefit their local communities. The conference promotes programs that emphasize leadership, service, and social responsibility among student-athletes.

One of the signature outreach programs of the GLVC is the "Make-A-Difference" initiative, which encourages student-athletes to volunteer their time and talents to support various community projects and causes. This initiative not only benefits the communities served but also helps student-athletes develop valuable life skills and a sense of civic responsibility.

Challenges and Future Directions

Like many athletic conferences, the GLVC faces a range of challenges, including financial pressures, evolving NCAA regulations, and the need to balance athletics with academics. The conference is continually exploring ways to enhance the student-athlete experience and maintain its competitive edge.

Looking to the future, the GLVC aims to expand its reach and influence within Division II athletics. This includes exploring opportunities for growth, enhancing its digital presence, and strengthening partnerships with sponsors and stakeholders.