The Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference (AMCC) today announced the addition of Carlow University as its newest member institution. The Carlow Celtics, who are transitioning from NAIA to NCAA Division III, will become provisional members of the AMCC in 2023-24, pending successful completion of the Division III exploratory year and acceptance into the NCAA provisional member process.
“For so many reasons, Carlow is a welcome addition to the AMCC family,” said commissioner Donna Ledwin. “Because of their location in the middle of our geographic footprint, they already have established relationships with a majority of our member institutions. They bring a menu of sports that work well with what we sponsor or hope to grow. And they have a leadership team that understands the Div. III philosophy and what that means in terms of educating the whole student. All of that adds up to a win-win partnership.”
The NCAA membership timetable means that Carlow would be a full conference member at the start of the 2026-27 academic year. Prior to that, the Celtics would be eligible for all AMCC privileges with the exception of participation in post-season events where the conference holds an automatic bid to the Division III tournament.
“This is an exciting time for Carlow University athletics in our new direction toward possible NCAA and AMCC membership,” said Carlow Athletic Director Lou Zadecky. “I believe this partnership will provide a better athletic experience for our student-athletes in regard to competition, shorter travel time, fewer missed classes and an overall better student and campus community experience.”
“This outstanding opportunity could not have happened without the tremendous support of President Kathy W. Humphrey, Dr. Tim Phillips, the University Board of Directors and countless campus partners,” added Zadecky. “I can’t express enough gratitude to these individuals who embraced the opportunity and vision to make this a possibility. I believe this partnership will strengthen our athletic department and provide even more opportunities for our student-athletes to succeed on campus and in their future endeavors.”
Carlow University is a private Catholic university in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1929 by the Sisters of Mercy. Carlow's athletic teams are known as the Celtics, a reflection of the university's Irish heritage and roots. The fourteen programs include men's and women's basketball, cross country, golf, indoor and outdoor track and field, soccer and volleyball, as well as women's softball and tennis.
Fast Facts:
Founded: 1929, by the Sisters of Mercy
Enrollment: 2,022
Nickname: Celtics
Colors: Purple and Gold
Director of Athletics: Lou Zadecky
President: Dr. Kathy W. Humphrey
Phone: 412-578-8826
Address: St. Joseph Athletic & Fitness Center, 206
3333 Fifth Ave., Pittsburgh, Pa. 15213