Norfolk, Va. --- On July 1, 2025, the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) enters its 55th season as an NCAA athletic conference, launching a year-long celebration honoring more than five decades of athletic, academic, and cultural achievement. 

Founded in 1970 as a conference for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the Eastern United States, the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) has long championed athletic excellence, academic achievement, and cultural pride. The conference began with seven pioneering institutions, Delaware State College, Howard University, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Morgan State University, North Carolina A&T State University, North Carolina Central University, and South Carolina State College. Over the past five decades, the MEAC has evolved in membership and scope, yet its legacy of elevating student-athletes and shaping futures remains as impactful as ever. 

"For over 55 years, the MEAC has been synonymous with opportunity, pride, and achievement," said MEAC Commissioner Sonja Stills. "This anniversary is a tribute to our storied past, vibrant present, and ambitious future. We will shine a spotlight on the teams, individuals, and moments that defined our journey from our founding in 1970 through today."  

The 2025-26 competitive slate promises to be unforgettable, with championship tournaments across all sports and community celebrations planned at key venues. 

"This isn't just a look back; it's a blueprint for the future," Commissioner Stills added. "As we celebrate our 55th year, we affirm our commitment to supporting student-athletes, strengthening programs, and enhancing opportunities for success on and off the court." 

Fans, alumni, and media are invited to join the celebration beginning July 1, 2025. More information on anniversary events, stories, and digital content can be found at MEACsports.com. 

About the MEAC

The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) enters its 55th year of intercollegiate competition in the 2025-26 academic school year. Located in Norfolk, Va., the MEAC is made up of eight outstanding historically black institutions across the Atlantic coastline: Coppin State University, Delaware State University, Howard University, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Morgan State University, Norfolk State University, North Carolina Central University and South Carolina State University.