The America East Conference is a collegiate athletic conference in the United States, primarily composed of schools in the northeastern region. Founded in 1979, it features a mix of public and private institutions that compete in various sports at the NCAA Division I level. Member schools participate in sports such as basketball, soccer, and lacrosse, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement alongside athletic performance. The conference is known for its competitive spirit and has produced several successful teams in national tournaments, particularly in men's and women's basketball.