The Pac-12 Conference ushers in a new era and strengthens its legacy by welcoming four prestigious academic and athletic universities

From: Pac-12 Conference

The six universities join forces to drive growth, awareness and heritage value and
Brand of the 100-year-old conference, its member institutions and student athletes

SAN RAMON, CA (September 12, 2024) – The Pac-12 Conference Board of Directors has unanimously voted to admit Boise State University, Colorado State University, California State University, Fresno and San Diego State University – four prestigious institutions celebrated for their academic and athletic achievements – into the Pac-12 Conference, effective July 1, 2026. Competition for all conference sports will begin in the 2026-27 academic year.

After reviewing the formal written applications from the four universities, Pac-12 Commissioner Teresa Gould and the conference's executive board strategically evaluated each university's applications based on five prioritized metrics and criteria that included academic and athletic performance, media and brand evaluation, commitment to athletic success, geography and logistics, culture and student-athlete welfare.

“For over a century, the Pac-12 Conference has been recognized as the leading brand in college sports,” said Commissioner Teresa Gould. “We will continue to pursue bold, innovative opportunities for growth and advancement to best serve our member institutions and student-athletes. I am grateful to our Board of Directors for their efforts in welcoming Boise State University, Colorado State University, California State University, Fresno and San Diego State University to the conference. Today marks the beginning of an exciting new era for the Pac-12 Conference.”

The Pac-12 Conference has a long tradition of excellence in athletics and academics, producing championship-caliber individuals both on and off the field, and will continue that tradition with new additions Boise State University, Colorado State University, California State University, Fresno and San Diego State University.

Oregon State University President Jayathi Murthy and Washington State University President Kirk Schulz added in a joint statement: “We are honored to welcome the outstanding leadership of Boise State University President Dr. Marlene Tromp, Colorado State University President Amy Parsons, California State University, Fresno President Dr. Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval and San Diego State University President Dr. Adela de la Torre to the Pac-12 Board of Directors. We eagerly await their uniquely insightful contributions in this transformative era for the conference and college sports.”

Along with Oregon State and Washington State universities, the four new conference members recognize the importance of strategic and innovative thinking. All six are committed to taking unconventional approaches to ensure the success of the conference and its member institutions and to providing incredible experiences for student-athletes.

Oregon State University and Washington State University are currently members of the Pac-12 Conference under a two-year NCAA transition period and will remain so for the 2025-26 academic year before the four new members officially join. The six universities will work together to plan for additional memberships and other future conference considerations.