Big East Conference

The Big East Conference is a collegiate athletic conference that competes in the NCAA Division I. Founded in 1979, it comprises ten full-time members: the University of Connecticut (UConn), Georgetown University, Providence College, Seton Hall University, Villanova University and Butler University as well as Creighton University (which joined July 1st 2013), DePaul University, Marquette University and St. John’s College which are all Catholic institutions located primarily on the East Coast of the United States.

From its formation until 2013–14 season, The Big East was one of six conferences with automatic qualifying bids to every men’s college basketball tournament; however this ended when seven schools left for other major conferences during 2012–13 school year. In December 2012 a new 10 team league was formed by most remaining original members plus three former CAA teams from northeast states and two midwestern non Catholic schools who accepted invitations to join starting fall 2013 . This resulted in an 18 team football league that plays under FBS rules while retaining current basketball line up including nine private universities and one public institution ( UConn ).

Since its inception , The Big East has been known for powerhouse programs such as UConn’s Women’s Basketball program with 11 national titles since 1995 or Syracuse Men’s Basketball National Championship run 2001 where they won their lone title after defeating Kansas 81-78 at Superdome New Orleans LA . Other prominent teams include Louisville Cardinals Men’s Basketball program which made multiple Final Four appearances between 2005 -2013 before departing conference due financial disputes between university president James Ramsey & conference commissioner Mike Aresco ; additionally long standing rivalries exist amongst member colleges like Georgetown vs Villanova or Syracuse vs Pittsburg among many others over decades old battles playing out within confines friendly competition making games exciting watch both home away venues alike!

In addition being competitive arena athletics , Big east also promotes academic excellence across campuses through initiatives designed ensure student athletes succeed both classroom professional pursuits post graduation day offering them support structure needed achieve these goals example providing resources access mentorships internships career advice counseling sessions help transferable skills required entering workforce preparedness training workshops related fields interest study furthering education even after four years competing sporting events affiliated association conferences allow groups connect share ideas topics form basis collaborations build lasting relationships bring value respective communities involved setting mission statement “promote learning service community justice truth integrity faith commitment each student we serve” represent values core foundation stands upon continue pursue greatness future generations come!