RIVERSIDE (July 15, 2013)—Nearly 150 California Baptist University employees gathered today to celebrate CBU's acceptance in the NCAA Division II. The festivities included remarks by Dr. Micah Parker, director of athletics, and Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, CBU president.

During the three-year NCAA application period, CBU has competed in the NCAA DII Pacific West Conference, but could not compete for NCAA championships. Acceptance in NCAA DII means CBU now is eligible for post-season competition.

"Everyone on this campus had a part to play in this three-year process and for that we thank you," Parker said. "Had we been NCAA DII eligible this year, we would have likely had 10 teams qualify for NCAA postseason."

Ellis said athletics is a key component of CBU's mission, along with academics and spiritual life.

"One of the most important things our athletics program accomplishes is to make student athletes realize that what they learn on the court or on the field can translate into real life," Ellis said. "As a university committed to the Great Commission, that message is a key building block in what we do here."

 

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