Carbondale Reporter

The Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) has announced a new governance structure approved by its President's Council. This development aims to strengthen the partnership between key multi-sport conferences and maintain the league's position as a leading conference in the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).

Under this agreement, Jeff Jackson will become the commissioner of the MVFC. Jackson has been serving as Commissioner of the Missouri Valley Conference since July 2021. Josh Fenton will take on the role of Executive Advisor for the MVFC, having served as Commissioner of The Summit League since April 2023.

This change follows the planned retirement of current MVFC commissioner Patty Viverito on June 30, 2025. Viverito has held this position for four decades. Jackson is set to begin his duties on July 1, 2025.

"I eagerly anticipate working with the MVFC Presidents Council, Summit League Commissioner Josh Fenton, and the Athletic Directors of the MVFC," stated Commissioner Jeff Jackson. "This partnership will foster a mutually beneficial relationship between our two conferences, ensuring the continued success of the MVFC while establishing a stable framework for our membership. Our collective efforts will be instrumental in delivering an exceptional experience for student-athletes."

Josh Fenton expressed excitement about this collaboration: "The Summit League and all its member institutions are excited for this new partnership with the Missouri Valley Conference to assist in the operations of the best FCS Football conference across the country," he said. "I look forward to working with Commissioner Jackson and his team to advance the interests of our football programs, while also continuing to build a strong Summit League."

Reflecting on her tenure, Patty Viverito remarked: "After serving 40 fulfilling years as Commissioner, I am happy to turn the reins over to new leadership being confident that the MVFC is both committed and equipped to continuing the pursuit of its unparalleled record of achievement in FCS on and off the field."

The President's Council unanimously approved a joint management model between MVC and The Summit League, introducing a Chief Operating Officer position soon to be advertised. This decision is intended to enhance operational efficiency and brand growth while maintaining MVFC's premier status.

"This restructuring ensures continued success and stability," commented University of North Dakota President Andy Armacost, currently serving as MVFC President's Chair. "By streamlining our management and enhancing collaboration among member institutions across three conferences – The Summit League, Missouri Valley Conference, and Horizon League – we are positioning ourselves for sustained growth and continued national prominence."

Despite these changes, MVFC will remain an independent legal entity separate from its member institutions' multisport conferences. The updated governance model includes various councils such as board directors and executive committees.

The MVFC comprises ten institutions: Illinois State, Indiana State, Murray State, North Dakota, North Dakota State, Northern Iowa, South Dakota, South Dakota State, Southern Illinois, and Youngstown State.