The GSAC entered a new era on July 2, 2024, with a new look and a new name. Established as the Golden State Athletic Conference in 1986, the league changed its name to the Great Southwest Athletic Conference. The change reflects the geography of the current membership as the league has moved to include all five NAIA schools in the state of Arizona while keeping its Southern California roots as well. With the name change came a new branding, retiring the previous brand that was established in 2008. 

In its history, the GSAC has been one of the most successful conferences in the country. Established in 1986 by like-minded institutions, the GSAC members are purposely aligned to be similar in enrollment, academics, athletics and student life. The GSAC is affiliated with the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), the nation's first collegiate athletic association to offer national championships.

Current full-time members include Arizona Christian University, Benedictine University Mesa, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Hope International University, Life Pacific University, OUAZ, Park University Gilbert and The Master's University. The GSAC Board of Directors announced in August that La Sierra University and Soka University of America will become the league’s ninth and tenth members beginning with the 2025-26 season.

Conference members have won 53 national championships and numerous athletes have won NAIA individual titles. GSAC schools consistently have teams ranked in the NAIA's Top 25 in all sports, and compete regularly for regional and national honors. In addition, numerous GSAC schools have hosted NAIA national championships, giving the conference great exposure and the chance to showcase their beautiful locations.

Former Conference Members
Azusa Pacific University
Biola University
California Baptist University
California Lutheran University
Concordia University–Irvine
Fresno Pacific University
Jessup University
Menlo College
Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego Christian College
Vanguard University of Southern California
Westmont College