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

Bylaws governing Division III member schools and voting conference offices are adopted through a membership-driven legislative process that culminates annually in a voting session during the NCAA Convention in January.
 
The process centers around the presidents, athletics direct reports, athletics administrators and staff, coaches, faculty representatives, conference personnel and student-athletes from Division III institutions and conferences who volunteer to serve on dozens of NCAA committees. The committees, led by the Division III Presidents Council, conduct the division’s day-to-day business, ranging from championship administration to budget allocations, as well as collect feedback from the membership and establish strategic direction for the future. The NCAA national office staff in Indianapolis assists the membership by administering the committees.
 
The student-athlete voice is a critically important component of the Division III governance structure. Two members of the Division III Student-Athlete Advisory Committee participate and vote in meetings of the Division III Management Council, the division’s primary policy-making body. Division III SAAC also takes a position, engages in debate and votes on key proposals at the NCAA Convention.
 
Many of the Division III 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 institutions and conferences.
 
For a visual of how the Division III governance structure works, click here.