Manchester University becomes Crossroads League's 11th member institution, first new member since 2010

North Manchester, IN (08/28/2026) — The Crossroads League Council of Presidents announced Friday, Aug. 28 that Manchester University has accepted an invitation to join the Crossroads League, upon NAIA approval, with membership beginning in the 2027 academic year.

Located in North Manchester, Ind., Manchester University will become the 11th member of the Crossroads League and the first institution added to the conference since Mount Vernon Nazarene University joined in 2010.

The addition of Manchester strengthens the Crossroads League's presence in Indiana while welcoming an institution that shares the League's commitment to faith, academic excellence, character and a transformational student-athlete experience.

Founded in 1889 and rooted in the tradition of the Church of the Brethren, Manchester University brings a long history of faith-based higher education and intercollegiate athletics to the Crossroads League.

Dr. Rebecca Stoltzfus, president of Goshen College and Chair of the Crossroads League Council of Presidents, emphasized the natural alignment between Manchester University and the League's member institutions.

"Manchester University represents an outstanding regional and mission fit for the Crossroads League. Our presidents were impressed by the University's faithful foundation, its commitment to students, and the tremendous leadership of President Dr. Stacy Young. Manchester shares our belief that intercollegiate athletics can be an important extension of an institution's mission and an opportunity to develop young people academically, athletically and spiritually. We are excited to welcome Dr. Young, Manchester's student-athletes, coaches, faculty, staff and entire university community to the Crossroads League."

Manchester University President Dr. Stacy Young has led the institution with a strong commitment to its mission, students and future, providing leadership that closely aligns with the values and vision of the Crossroads League.

"We are honored to join the Crossroads League, one of the NAIA's premier conferences. Throughout this process, we were seeking more than athletic competition. We were looking for partners who share our values and our belief that athletics should be an extension of an institution's educational mission. The League's commitment to faith, character development, academic excellence, and student success made it an exceptional fit for Manchester. We are excited to begin this new chapter and become part of such a strong and like-minded community."

The addition represents a significant moment for the Crossroads League. Manchester will be the League's first new member in 17 years when it officially begins membership in 2027.

The Crossroads League has established itself as one of the NAIA's premier conferences, combining national-level athletic success with academic excellence and a distinctive commitment to Christ-centered intercollegiate athletics. Manchester's addition further strengthens that foundation while providing additional regional opportunities for competition among like-minded institutions.

"Adding an institution to the Crossroads League is about much more than geography or athletics," said Crossroads League Commissioner Larry DeSimpelare. "Our presidents have been intentional about finding institutions that align with who we are and what we believe the student-athlete experience should represent. Manchester University checks those boxes. Its faith heritage, regional location, academic reputation and commitment to its students make Manchester an excellent addition to our League. We are incredibly excited to welcome President Stacy Young and the entire Manchester community to the Crossroads League."

Manchester University will begin the transition process in preparation for Crossroads League competition during the 2027 academic year. Additional information regarding conference scheduling, championship participation and Manchester's transition into the League will be announced at a later date.

ABOUT MANCHESTER UNIVERSITY

Manchester University is a private, faith-based institution located in North Manchester, Ind. Founded in 1889, the University has a longstanding tradition of providing a values-centered education focused on developing students of ability and conviction who make a positive difference in their communities and the world.

ABOUT THE CROSSROADS LEAGUE

The Crossroads League is an association of faith-based institutions of higher education committed to excellence in academics, intercollegiate athletics and the development of student-athletes through Christ-centered leadership. A member conference of the NAIA, the Crossroads League faithfully intertwines its commitment to Christ with the NAIA Champions of Character core values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and servant leadership.