Tuesday, 16 Jul 2024

USOPC Recognizes USAV for HBCU Grant

In a significant move towards advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in collegiate sports, USA Volleyball was recently honored by the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC). The organization will be presented with the prestigious 2020 DEI Choice Award at the upcoming USOPC Assembly on October 8th.

USA Volleyball’s recognition stems from their remarkable initiative in granting $400,000 to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to establish Division I and II men’s volleyball programs. This grant is part of a larger $1 million contribution made by USA Volleyball and the First Point Volleyball Foundation to the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association (SIAC) in September 2019.

The DEI Choice Award is a testament to the outstanding efforts made by National Governing Bodies (NGBs) and high-performance management organizations (HPMOs) in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the sporting community. The winner is determined through a vote among their peers in the NGB and HPMO networks.

USAV President and CEO Jamie Davis expressed his gratitude for receiving the award, stating, “Diversity, Equity & Inclusion plays an important role for us at USA Volleyball, and therefore, to be recognized by our peers in this area is truly humbling.” The organization hopes that this grant will not only pave the way for the establishment of new collegiate volleyball programs but also provide opportunities for young Black men to participate in club volleyball and potentially represent Team USA in the future.

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The HBCUs that will benefit from the USAV grant include Central State University, Benedict College, Fort Valley State University, Kentucky State University, Morehouse College, and Paine College. These institutions will introduce NCAA Division I-II men’s volleyball programs, set to debut in the spring of 2022. Additionally, a six-team conference tournament is planned, with the details of the event to be determined at a later date.

The DEI Choice Award will be presented during a virtual inspirational evening on October 8th, alongside other prestigious accolades. The event will be hosted by Ahmed Fareed of NBC Sports, and promises to be a celebration of excellence and inclusivity in sports.