The Center for Africana Futures (CAF) at Texas Southern University is proud to launch the traveling HBCU Sports Ecosystem Symposium Series: Beyond the Game at Jackson State University on Friday, September 12, 2025.

This series explores the intersections of athletics, technology, and culture at HBCUs. Our first stop will highlight how Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) equity, artificial intelligence in sports information and communication, and athlete analytics are reshaping the future of Black college sports.

The event brings together leaders in athletics and higher education to reflect on how HBCU institutions are not only thriving on the field but also driving innovation, community, and leadership beyond the game.

Featured Speakers:

• Dr. J. Kenyatta Cavil — Professor & Interim Dean, Texas Southern University; Research Developer, Center for Africana Futures; Host of Inside the HBCU Sports Lab

• Ashley Robinson — Vice President & Director of Athletics, Jackson State University

• Dr. Charles McClelland — Commissioner, Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC)

• Reginald Ruffin — Director of Athletics, Tuskegee University

This launch event is presented in partnership with Jackson State Athletics and coincides with the W.C. Gordon Classic, featuring the Tuskegee Golden Tigers and Jackson State Tigers.

This event marks the beginning of a historic series that will travel across HBCU campuses nationwide. Together, we’re creating space for dialogue, innovation, and leadership that truly goes beyond the game.

#HBCUSportsEcosystem #BeyondTheGame #CAF #TSU #JSU #SWAC #Tuskegee