Oakland City (Ind.) University announced this week that it would be suspending all undergraduate programs through Fall 2027, effectively shutting down all athletics as well.
According to 14 News, the Christian university, which competes in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), plans to lay off hundreds of staff members as well as suspend all undergraduate programming. Dozens of staff members told 14 News that they still have not received their May paychecks, and the layoffs are effective May 31, 2026.
“OCU will continue to offer graduate-level programs and prepare to resume undergraduate operations in the 2027–28 academic year," said OCU spokesperson Todd Mosby.
Student-athletes who wish to continue competing must transfer to take advantage of their remaining collegiate eligibility.
Said freshman football player, Hunter Braunecker, “The first thought was ‘oh shoot,’ I’ve got to find somewhere else now, because I still plan on finishing college. When I got home, I had to start my recruitment process all over again.”
OCU previously sponsored men’s and women’s track and field, tennis, swimming, golf, soccer, cross country and basketball, as well as men’s football and baseball, and women’s softball.
In the wake of the cancellations, other colleges in southern Indiana have pledged their support for transferring students. The University of Southern Indiana and Indiana State University both released statements confirming that they would assist OCU students and welcome them to the new schools.
“We recognize what a challenging moment this is for the OCU community,” said Steven J. Bridges, USI president. “We understand that every student’s situation is unique, and we are ready to provide personalized guidance that reflects your goals. We can offer clear options and individualized support to help you stay on track and move forward with confidence.”
For student-athletes, the University of Southern Indiana competes as a DI school in the NCAA, sponsoring 17 varsity sports.
