NCAA Office of Inclusion Empowers HBCU Student-Athletes at the Black Student-Athlete Summit
A Transformational Experience
For Anaya Martin, a dedicated track and field athlete from Tuskegee University, the opportunity to attend the Black Student-Athlete Summit couldn’t have come at a more critical juncture in her athletic career. Reflecting on her experience, she shared, "We talked about life after athletics. You have to think about the future now before it even happens. If you wait, it’s gonna be too late." This eye-opening experience revealed that she wasn’t alone in navigating the complexities of life beyond sports.
A Historic Gathering
The NCAA Office of Inclusion sponsored four exceptional student-athletes from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to attend this groundbreaking summit, held from May 21-24 in Chicago. Collaborating with HBCU conference commissioners, the NCAA’s inclusion, education, and community engagement team provided these athletes with an invaluable opportunity to partake in dynamic programming that could shape their futures.
Engaging Programming
During the four-day summit, participants engaged in various enriching activities including career development sessions, financial literacy workshops, and wellness activities designed to prepare them for life off the field. Each session was tailored to inspire and equip student-athletes with the tools necessary to transition successfully into their post-athletic careers.
From left to right: Clay Green, Aidan Starling, Ethaliah Edouard, and Anaya Martin (Photo courtesy of the NCAA Office of Inclusion)
Insights from HBCU Athletes
Aidan Starling, an enthusiastic track and field athlete from Grambling State University, took full advantage of the summit’s offerings to reflect on his unique position as an HBCU student-athlete. He emphasized, "HBCUs haven’t always been afforded the same opportunities. This initiative has really given me, as a representative of my school, an opportunity to voice our struggles and learn from industry leaders."
Starling’s experience in the Windy City not only showcased how far he has come but also illuminated his future path. “There were times I never would have seen myself making it this far,” he said. “When you get these positions you’ve been dreaming of, go back and bring someone else along.”
Personal Connections and Growth
Ethaliah Edouard, a volleyball player at Johnson C. Smith University, shared a poignant moment from the summit. “Listening to a former student-athlete who became a doctor felt like looking into a mirror,” she noted, resonating with her own academic struggles. This connection reinforced her appreciation for the supportive environment at her HBCU and inspired her to pursue a career in medicine.
Edouard also valued her discussions with athletes from predominantly white institutions, which deepened her understanding of diversity and representation. “It made me appreciate my HBCU even more,” she reflected. “There is so much power in being surrounded by other Black athletes.”
Clay Green, a budding golf star from North Carolina Central University, attended sessions focused on the legal aspects of sports, igniting his ambition to become a sports attorney. Green is eager to bring what he learned back to campus, setting a foundation for discussions about financial literacy and opportunities beyond sports.
The Power of Connection
The Black Student-Athlete Summit not only equipped these four student-athletes with essential skills but also connected them with a network of Black excellence. Green expressed, "Coming from an HBCU, I already see Black excellence, but witnessing it outside of my school is always a pleasure."
Conclusion
The NCAA’s investment in these HBCU student-athletes is more than just a moment of recognition; it’s a commitment to building a future where representation and opportunity go hand in hand. This summit highlighted the tremendous potential of student-athletes, reminding us all that the journey extends far beyond the confines of athletics. By fostering an environment of inclusivity and empowerment, the NCAA is paving the way for the next generation of leaders in sports and beyond.
For more details on the Black Student-Athlete Summit, visit the NCAA Office of Inclusion.
With its blend of personal stories, community engagement, and practical insights, the Summit underscores the vital role that HBCUs play in shaping the future of student-athletes across the nation. The journey continues, and these student-athletes are poised to make an impact—both on and off the field.
