The league’s Board of Directors voted unanimously Monday to bring James Madison into the American Conference as a full member, with the Dukes set to begin competition no later than July 1, 2028.

The move followed a formal application from JMU and a lengthy due-diligence review that examined everything from academic and institutional fit to competitive trajectory, fan engagement, media value, financial sustainability, and geography. Conference officials also commissioned a quantitative media study that weighed market size, audience performance, and other value drivers before green-lighting the addition.

“The American Conference is a destination, and James Madison University represents everything we value and strengthens our membership,” Commissioner Tim Pernetti said. “The Dukes have rapidly built a nationally recognized brand through a culture of innovation, investment, bold leadership and competitive success. JMU’s trajectory aligns with who we are and where we are going. We look forward to welcoming the entire JMU community to the American and building something special together. Thank you to our highly engaged presidents, chancellors, and athletics directors for their thoughtful and collaborative work that led to a unanimous vote.”

Currently a member of the Sun Belt, JMU arrives with a fast-rising national profile, on-field success, and a loyal following that stretches across Virginia, Washington, DC, and the broader Mid-Atlantic. Both sides emphasize a shared commitment to academics, student development, and the overall student-athlete experience — an alignment that reinforces the American’s self-described identity of innovation, grit, and service under its “Built to Rise” banner.

The deal will bring the football playing membership of the American to 15, an odd number that is likely to prompt speculation that an additional invitation will be considered. Army and Navy compete in the league in football only.

On3 has reported that JMU has committed to pay an entrance fee greater than $20 million and that Connecticut and Miami of Ohio have also applied to join the league. The RedHawks are interested in full membership while the Huskies would like to keep their basketball program in the Big East.

Adding JMU expands the conference’s media inventory and is expected to boost distributions for current members. The league’s current long term media deal pays out about $7 million per team.

The Dukes, for their part, have made a substantial financial and commercial commitment as part of joining the league.

An American Conference release contributed to this article.