Division II employs a democratic style of governance in which all member schools vote on and hold themselves accountable to various policies and procedures. Division II has abided by its “One Institution, One Vote” system since the division was established in 1973.

Bylaws governing Division II are adopted through a membership-driven legislative process that culminates annually in a voting session during the NCAA Convention in January. That process includes input from Division II presidents, athletics administrators and staff, coaches, faculty athletics representatives, conference personnel and student-athletes who volunteer to serve on dozens of NCAA committees to conduct the division’s day-to-day business and establish strategic direction for the future. The membership receives assistance in this regard from staff members at the NCAA national office in Indianapolis who help administer Division II affairs.
 
The student-athlete voice is an important component of the Division II governance structure. Two members of the Division II Student-Athlete Advisory Committee participate and vote in meetings of the Division II Management Council, the division’s primary policymaking body. The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee also votes on all proposals at the NCAA Convention.
 
Division II’s vast committee structure oversees everything from strategic planning and budget allocations to championships administration and marketing/communications. Many of these regulations — as well as proposals to change existing policies — develop within the committee governance structure throughout the year, while other legislative proposals are submitted by member schools and conferences.