CLINTON, Miss. (BP) — Mississippi College (MC) will become Mississippi Christian University, a statement from the school’s board of trustees announced on Nov. 18.

The name change will take effect in 2026 to coincide with the bicentennial of the school affiliated with the Mississippi Baptist Convention.

“The institutional name change is a strategic decision that reiterates leadership’s commitment to fulfilling the private university’s vision statement — To be known as a university recognized for academic excellence and commitment to the cause of Christ,” the statement read. “Planning for a name change and associated branding efforts will begin immediately.”

The name change also “underscores” the school as “a comprehensive university” while allowing the continued use of its established branding and logo, the board said.

MC began as Hampstead University in 1826, just nine years after Mississippi was admitted into the United States, and is the oldest university in the state. It was obtained by the Mississippi Baptist Convention in 1850.

Football program discontinued

A “strategic realignment of athletics” announced by the Mississippi College board of trustees included the “discontinuation” of its football program.

“Discontinuing our football program is a difficult decision. We acknowledge the program’s legacy and the deep connection to the many student-athletes, alumni and supporters of the football program. I want to emphasize that we will always consider them as part of our MC Family,” said MC Athletic Director Kenny Bizot.

The Nov. 18 statement included the name change and “academic reorganization” of the school. The changes, said the board, were based on recommendations from a task force assigned with providing answers to encourage “long-term sustainability” for the school.

The Mississippi College Choctaws first took the field in 1907. The team’s history includes College Football Hall of Famer Edwin “Goat” Hale from the 1921 team.

They claimed the NCAA Division II championship in 1989, but it was later vacated due to NCAA rule violations.

(EDITOR’S NOTE — Scott Barkley is chief national correspondent for Baptist Press.)