ATHERTON, CA – Menlo College announced today that it has been formally accepted as a member of the California Collegiate Athletic Association, with competition beginning in the 2026-27 academic year. This decision marks a significant step forward for Menlo and reflects the College's commitment to strengthening the academic and athletic experience of its students.

Earlier this year, Menlo College President Steven Weiner and Vice President and Director of Athletics Keith Spataro were charged by the Board of Trustees with examining every opportunity that could support the academic balance of student-athletes, enhance competitive opportunities, reduce travel strain, reinforce institutional sustainability, and identify the long term home that best aligns with Menlo's values. That review was extensive and included months of deliberate study, conversations across the region, and a close evaluation of how different conference structures could support the Menlo experience.

As that work progressed, the opportunity to join the California Collegiate Athletic Association emerged as a rare and time sensitive possibility. The more Menlo learned, the clearer the alignment became. The CCAA is one of the most historic and successful NCAA Division II conferences in the country, with a remarkable tradition that includes more than 150 national championships. Its member institutions share a deep commitment to academic integrity, student development, and competitive excellence. The chance to join a conference with that kind of history is both exciting and meaningful for Menlo College.

President Weiner noted the significance of the moment, stating: "Becoming part of the CCAA is more than an athletic decision for Menlo College—it is a statement about who we are and who we intend to become. This move strengthens the balance we expect for our student-athletes, elevates our competitive opportunities, and places Menlo in a conference that reflects our deepest academic and institutional values."

For Menlo's student-athletes, the move provides clear advantages. A strong Northern California footprint reduces missed class time and supports a healthier weekly rhythm. Southern California competition remains accessible in a way that strengthens recruiting and alumni engagement. The statewide presence of the CCAA elevates Menlo's visibility and places its programs in a conference known nationally for excellence. For the first time in nearly two decades, Menlo will compete in a structure that restores meaningful regional rivalries and connects the College more closely with its academic mission.

Vice President and Director of Athletics Keith Spataro shared that "our student-athletes earned this opportunity. Their work, their progress, and the way they represent Menlo every day created the foundation that made this move possible. The CCAA will push us and elevate us, and that is exactly what we want. This conference reflects who we are becoming."

The CCAA leadership expressed equal enthusiasm. "We are delighted to welcome Menlo into the conference," said CCAA Commissioner Allen Hardison. "The Oaks have an impressive history of academic and athletic success that will continue to elevate the CCAA. Menlo is also located in the heart of Silicon Valley, which is a critically important market to us as we look at the constantly changing landscape in college athletics. I know our student-athletes and fans will enjoy visiting their beautiful campus and I look forward to watching Menlo add to the collective accomplishments of the CCAA."

"As Chair of the CCAA Board of Presidents, I am proud to welcome Menlo College into the California Collegiate Athletic Association," said CCAA Board Chair and California State University Monterey Bay President Vanya Quiñones. "The addition of new institutions, especially at the quality of Menlo, strengthens our conference and brings new energy and competition for all the teams in the league. We are excited for Menlo to join the CCAA and look forward to many exciting matchups ahead."

Menlo also extends its sincere appreciation to the Pacific West Conference. The PacWest supported Menlo during its transition into NCAA Division II and provided meaningful competition and important relationships throughout this formative period. President Weiner emphasized that "our gratitude to the PacWest is sincere and enduring. The conference embraced Menlo during our transition to Division II, and provided relationships and competitive experiences that helped shape who we are today. This move reflects the exceptional alignment and opportunity the CCAA provides for our students, not a diminished appreciation for the PacWest."

Menlo College now prepares to enter a new chapter, one rooted in opportunity and built on the work of its student athletes, coaches, and staff. The College looks forward to contributing to the CCAA's proud history, strengthening its presence across both Northern and Southern California, and partnering with its member institutions to further elevate the student-athlete experience.

The next era of Menlo College begins now.