Spearfish, S.D. – Black Hills State University has been approved to move into Year Two of candidacy for Division II membership effective Sept. 1.

“This is another big step in our transition to NCAA Division II,” said Jhett Albers, Director of Athletics.  “We began this process to better serve our student-athletes.  We strongly believe that this transition to NCAA Division II will offer our student-athletes a great experience both athletically and academically.”

The Yellow Jackets are one of eight schools that moved into Year Two of candidacy.  Other institutions advancing to Year Two of candidacy are California Baptist University, Lindenwood University, Malone University, McKendree University, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, Ursuline College, and Walsh University.

The official announcement came at the summer meeting of the Division II Membership Committee.

Black Hills State will become a full member of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) beginning in the 2012-13 season.  This season, the Yellow Jackets will play an independent schedule and will be an associate member of the RMAC in softball.

For more information on Black Hills State Athletics, visit www.BHSUAthletics.com.