ERIE, Pa. — Mercyhurst University today announced a series of academic program adjustments and the discontinuation of its Division I men's ice hockey program, decisions that reflect a comprehensive strategy focused on long-term viability and alignment with student demand.

As the university prepares for its centennial academic year, these decisions are part of an ongoing effort to position Mercyhurst for the next 100 years by aligning academic and athletics offerings with evolving student interests and workforce needs.

"These were thoughtful and consequential decisions," said President Kathleen Getz. "They reflect our responsibility to ensure Mercyhurst remains strong, responsive, and focused on providing students with the opportunities and experiences that will prepare them for success."

University leaders noted that such evaluations are a regular part of higher education strategic planning and are essential to maintaining a strong and relevant academic portfolio.

The Division I men's ice hockey program will be discontinued following the conclusion of the current academic year. Mercyhurst will support all affected student-athletes by honoring athletics scholarships, providing academic advising, and assisting students who choose to pursue opportunities through the NCAA transfer portal.

The university will continue to support women's Division I hockey and men's club hockey while maintaining a strong and competitive Division I athletics program.

"Our focus is on supporting every student-athlete through this transition," said Director of Athletics Joe Spano. "We are committed to providing the resources, guidance, and individual support needed as they determine their next steps."

Mercyhurst emphasized that the university remains strong, with positive enrollment momentum and continued investment in academic programs, applied learning initiatives, and industry partnerships. The university remains committed to Division I athletics and to providing meaningful opportunities for student-athletes across its programs.

The university is communicating directly with students, faculty, staff, and other members of the Mercyhurst community and will continue to provide updates and support resources in the days ahead.

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FAQ

Why is this being done?
University-wide Strategic decision.
 
This was a very difficult decision and one that was not taken lightly. This is part of an ongoing effort to align academic offerings and athletics programs with long-term institutional priorities and the evolving needs of students.
 
Mercyhurst University remains financially stable and continues to see strong student interest and enrollment momentum.
 
Top universities across the country regularly evaluate programs to ensure resources are focused on areas that best support student success and the institution's future.
 
What sport(s) are being discontinued and how was that determined?
Division I men's ice hockey is the only sport being discontinued. This will impact approximately 30 student-athletes.
 
Athletics programs are periodically evaluated as part of broader institutional planning. The decision reflects a combination of factors, including long-term sustainability, institutional priorities, and the overall structure of Mercyhurst athletics as the university continues its transition to Division I competition.
 
The university remains committed to providing meaningful opportunities for student-athletes and maintaining a strong and competitive Division I athletics profile across a broad portfolio of sports. Mercyhurst will continue to support excellent women's Division 1 hockey and robust men and women's club hockey teams as part of its overall athletics portfolio.
 
Why is this being done now?
The timing reflects the completion of an institutional review process and allows Mercyhurst to provide clear information and support to those affected.
 
For Division I men's ice hockey student-athletes, the NCAA Transfer Portal opens normally on April 13th, announcing now will allow our student-athletes to enter the Portal two weeks prior to other student-athletes.
 
Can Division I men's ice hockey players keep their athletic scholarship?
Scholarship commitments at their existing levels will be honored for any Division I men's ice hockey student athlete who elects to remain at Mercyhurst to complete their degree program, provided they remain in good academic and conduct standing.
 
If you choose to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal to explore other options and decide to remain at Mercyhurst, we will honor your existing scholarship.
 
Can Division I men's ice hockey players transfer to another school and play immediately?
Yes, as long as you continue to meet all applicable NCAA eligibility standards, including progress toward degree. For Mercyhurst Division I men's ice hockey student-athletes, the NCAA Transfer Portal opened early on March 27. This timing allows our student-athletes additional flexibility to explore their options. Please contact Stacey Gaudette-Madonia if you have questions at sgaudette@mercyhurst.edu
 
Will scholarships be honored for incoming committed student-athletes?
Yes, scholarships will be honored for Division I men's ice hockey incoming fully signed and committed student-athletes throughout the completion of their degree.
 
How can the university help support the impacted student-athletes?
We are committed to standing by the impacted students and will provide support wherever possible, including mental health services, academic guidance, financial aid, and other student resources.
 
Will MU assist student-athletes who desire to transfer?
Yes, the compliance department will be available to help students complete the paperwork to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal. Those wishing to transfer to other institutions will receive assistance and support in doing so. Questions about eligibility can be directed to the athletic compliance department.  For Mercyhurst Division I men's ice hockey players, the NCAA Transfer Portal opened on March 27. This timing allows our student-athletes additional flexibility to explore their options prior to the regular opening on April 13.
 
Could private donations or fundraising reinstate Division I men's ice hockey?
Sustaining an intercollegiate athletics program requires consistent, long-term resources rather than one-time funding. This decision reflects a broader assessment of long-term sustainability and institutional priorities.
 
What are the financial savings for the university from discontinuing Division I men's ice hockey?
The decision was not driven by a single financial figure. It reflects a broader review of programs and institutional priorities to ensure Mercyhurst remains strong for the long term.
 
Is the university considering the discontinuation of other athletic teams?
Division I men's ice hockey is the only sport being discontinued.
 
Is this related to President Getz's retirement?
These decisions are not related to presidential leadership transition. They are the result of a comprehensive institutional review process focused on aligning Mercyhurst's programs and resources with long-term strategic priorities. Both current and incoming leadership are aligned in supporting these decisions as part of the university's continued evolution.
 
Why discontinue some academic programs and an athletic team while adding others?
Mercyhurst regularly evaluates its academic and athletics offerings to ensure Mercyhurst's offerings remain relevant and responsive to future student needs. As part of this process, the university invests in areas of growth and opportunity while making difficult decisions about programs with declining demand. This approach reflects intentional, forward-looking planning to align Mercyhurst's offerings with future student needs as the university prepares to embark upon its next century.