St. Ambrose University in Davenport has formally applied for full membership in the Heart of America Athletic Conference.
University leaders said it is part of an ongoing effort to strengthen the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of its athletics programs. In a news release Friday, Feb. 6, St. Ambrose said it continually evaluates opportunities that best supports its student-athletes, academic priorities, and institutional mission.
If approved, St. Ambrose will begin competing in The Heart of America Athletic Conference this fall. St. Ambrose has been part of the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference (CCAC).
“The Heart of America Conference is one of the NAIA’s premiere athletic conferences which offers a competitive landscape that aligns well with where St. Ambrose athletics is headed,” Amy Novak, president of St. Ambrose University, said. “This potential transition reflects our continued commitment to providing student-athletes with meaningful opportunities to excel in the classroom, in competition, and in service to others.”
Founded in 1971, the Heart of America conference is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and is home to 15 full member institutions across the Midwest, representing a dynamic mix of public and private universities united by their commitment to academic excellence, competitive athletics, and character-driven development.
Membership would allow St. Ambrose student-athletes to compete alongside a new set of quality collegiate programs with a strong tradition of success while increasing the university’s visibility at the national level.
“This is a forward-looking step that supports the growth of our programs and the experience of our student-athletes,” Mike Holmes, director of athletics at St. Ambrose, said in the release. “The conference’s geographic alignment, competitive strength, and national profile create an environment where our teams can participate in an elite league.”
He added “That said, we would like to recognize our colleagues in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference for being great NAIA partners during our membership.”
The St. Ambrose football team has been an associate member of the Heart of America Athletic Conference since fall of 2024.
Approval of full membership is pending as the conference reviews St. Ambrose University’s application.
The university said it will continue to communicate with student-athletes, coaches, and campus stakeholders as the review moves forward. All St. Ambrose athletic programs will continue to compete as scheduled during the transition process.
