HOUSTON – Houston Baptist University has received notification from the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) that the school has successfully completed the NCAA Certification process.

“I am extremely pleased that HBU will become an active Division I member,” said HBU President Robert B. Sloan, Jr. “This is a giant step forward for HBU, our alumni, students, faculty and staff…most especially for our student-athletes and coaches. Athletics is an important component of our student life initiatives and competing at this level is another sign of excellence for the University.”

The University completed the two-year long, campus-wide process after a peer review visit and responding to NCAA recommendations last fall. The final step toward full membership is completing an annual report and a strategic plan by June 1.

“This was a tough and lengthy process for all involved, and we owe a huge debt of thanks to all those on campus who skillfully contributed to the task,” HBU Director of Athletics Steve Moniaci said. “I think we can truly say that ours was a process in which the athletic department and the university were enriched by the experience.”

HBU expects to be granted active membership this summer and compete with full membership privileges for the 2011-12 academic year.