This one has been brewing for quite some time, but is now official.

The Southern Conference announced today that Samford University has accepted an invitation to join the Conference. Samford will become the 12th member of the SoCon beginning July 1, 2008.

The SoCon’s Council of Presidents formally ratified the unanimous endorsement of the league’s Executive Committee during a teleconference held this morning.

“We are delighted that Samford University will become the 12th member of the SoCon,” said Southern Conference commissioner John Iamarino. “Samford’s institutional profile is one that is very consistent with those of our current members – strong academics, an unwavering commitment to the welfare and graduation of the student-athlete, combined with a burning desire to operate a successful athletics program within the mission of the institution.”

More…