I think that we must remember that we are often reacting to what we read by internet message board posters.
All of the speculation; from some fans who think JMU has it's pick of a number of conferences including the ACC and the B1G, to those who feel that JMU will stay where it is, seems to be just that, speculation
So, here is my speculation!
The reality of JMU's situation may indeed be predominantly financial, and not one driven by the need for like institutional, philosophical, and/or academic peers.
Here is what we know for sure:
1. JMU AD Bourne stated in 2011 (re moving to FBS)
Quote:I think it is very likely something like this could happen, I would guess you could see movement in 18-24 months.
2. The expanded Bridgeforth stadium seems to be tailor made for FBS. It is FBS ready now with the potential to double it's capacity.
3. JMU is poised to make a sizable investment in basketball, necessary to be more attractive to an FBS conference, with the 2011 BOV approval of a new 2014 convocation center. The General Assembly then approved funding (88,000,000) through bonds in 2012.
4. JMU, along with Delaware, was involved in the discussions when ODU first spoke to CUSA.
5. ODU AD Selig continues to promote JMU to CUSA
Here is what is likely:
1. JMU was also contacted by the MAC and the WAC in 2012, the MAC possibly earlier and again more recently. (according to media sources).
2. JMU has been contacted by the SBC is 2013.
What would keep JMU from acting?
The upgraded Bridgeforth has had very few sell outs. There may be some question as to whether JMU football support has maxed out locally. If less than 25k is all that can expected, at least in the foreseeable future, then a move up is problematic.
Certainly the missed playoff opportunity at Bridgeforth was an "epic fail"; but was there an extenuating financial issue as the root cause?
The Harrisonburg community is, at best, ambivalent to the university (according to anything and everything I have ever read). This could limit the prospective number of attendees to local events, and limit the number and size of local corporate donations.
ODU, VCU, and ECU as examples; local corporate donations and local event support far exceed those of just alumni and students.
Is this missing from the JMU equation?
I am not sure of the disposition of the new James Madison convo, but it seems to be delayed.
Again, is there now a question of long term support and thus a reticence to spend the money?
Does JMU have "sugar daddies" - Zable[estate](W&M), Weinstein and Ballard(ODU), or Robins(UR) to fall back on when needed?
State funding has decreased as of late, and it appears that that trend will continue.
Title IX
Real or perceived, there may be serious fiscal issues prompting the "delayed reaction" of JMU to apparent opportunities that would take it to the next level.