Recap: HBCU Showcase Sponsored by KPMG
On Saturday, January 14th, 19 Historically Black Colleges and Universities took to The Armory track for its fifth annual HBCU Showcase Sponsored by KPMG, a meet much anticipated for not only its athletic distinction but also for its college fair and entertainment components.
On the same floor as the track and field action, college admissions representatives and alumni of 12 HBCUs institutions advised high school student-athletes and spectators on their respective application processes, academics, campuses, and student organizations.
Schools that participated in the college fair included:
Coppin State
Delaware State
Edward Waters
Florida A&M
Florida Memorial
Hampton
Maryland-Eastern Shore
North Carolina A&T
Prairie View
St. Augustine's
Tuskegee
Winston-Salem State
Bowie State, Johnson C. Smith, and Tennessee State also prepared materials for The Armory to put on display for attendees.
The opening ceremony featured New York City mayor Eric Adams, who addressed the arena with excitement about HBCUs, the student-athlete experience, and community initiatives.
Local artist and running enthusiast Nattalyee Randall sang both the National Anthem and the Black National Anthem (“Lift Every Voice and Sing”).
Brooklyn United Music and Arts Program Marching Band provided a drum-line that played in the center of the oval as well as along the homestretch during the 3000m races.
DJ Milhouse kept the crowd energized from the infield with his meet playlist.
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. HBCU alumni from Brooklyn, Long Island, Upper Manhattan, and the Bronx performed a stroll, a dance known for its century-old tradition among Black Greek organizations on college campuses.
Nike’s Yardrunners were on hand to support the HBCU schools they work with throughout the year and to continue their celebration of Black athletes and global trailblazers. The group distributed swag from their collection, which debuted in 2020.
KPMG, the meet’s title sponsor, had a large on-site presence. The organization’s volunteers supported officials at their designated locations around the oval and interacted with student-athletes at activation stations. Set-ups featured card-making for local, underfunded schools; hot chocolate and topping options; and (free!) signature hats, bags, and water bottles. Employees also occupied the newly named Dr. Sander Suite on the fourth floor, in which they welcomed student-athletes to discuss career options and internships.
Local press covered the event throughout the day. Here are some of their stories:
The Armory hosts 5th annual HBCU indoor track and field showdown - NY1
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase the athletics, the intelligence, and the brilliance of HBCU students right here in New York City.”