A New Era Begins: Andrew College Joins the NAIA
CUTHBERT, Ga. – A new era of Andrew College Athletics begins today. Effective Wednesday, July 1, the Fighting Tigers became members of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).
The Fighting Tigers will compete in the Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC) and sponsor 16 intercollegiate sports across campus.
"We are proud to officially welcome Andrew College into full membership of the NAIA and the Southern States Athletic Conference," said SSAC Commissioner Mike Hall. "Andrew College brings a rich tradition and a strong commitment to developing student-athletes on and off the field, and its addition further strengthens our presence in Georgia. We're eager to see the Fighting Tigers thrive in SSAC competition and contribute to the academic and athletic excellence our conference is known for."
Andrew College received approval for full membership during the fall 2025 semester after being approved by both the SSAC Board of Presidents and the NAIA Council of Presidents.
"Joining the NAIA and the Southern States Athletic Conference allows our student-athletes to compete at a higher level, gain broader exposure and continue to pursue excellence both on and off the field," said Andrew College Athletic Director and Head Men's Basketball Coach Brian Skortz. "We are excited for this next chapter of Andrew College Athletics and look forward to competing as members of the NAIA and the Southern States Athletic Conference."
Prior to joining the NAIA, the Fighting Tigers competed in the National Junior College Athletic Association as members of the Georgia Collegiate Athletic Association. The move to the NAIA reflects Andrew College's commitment to expanding opportunities for its student-athletes, both athletically and academically, as the institution continues its transition to a four-year model.
Since the 2021-22 academic year, Andrew College has experienced steady enrollment growth, increasing from 294 students in the fall of 2022 to 496 students in the fall of 2024 and now surpassing 600 students. Under the leadership of President Dr. William "Rusty" Kennedy, the College has also launched nine new bachelor's degree programs and added six athletic teams.
"This growth is a reflection of the hard work of our faculty, staff and students, and a sign of confidence in Andrew College's mission," said Kennedy. "We are proud to build on Andrew's legacy while preparing for an even brighter future."
About the NAIA
Headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics is the governing body for more than 83,000 student-athletes at member institutions across the country. Founded in 1937 following the first national college basketball tournament in Kansas City, the NAIA now sponsors 30 national championships.
About the SSAC
Founded in 1991, the Southern States Athletic Conference is an NAIA conference comprised of 15 member institutions across Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee.
Current SSAC members include Andrew College, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, Blue Mountain Christian University, Brewton-Parker College, Dalton State College, Faulkner University, Life University, Loyola University New Orleans, Point University, Thomas University, the University of Mobile, the University of Tennessee Southern, Wesleyan College, William Carey University and Xavier University of Louisiana.