Each spring, the CIAA Tournament returns to Baltimore, bringing teams, alumni, bands, and fans together for one of the most established traditions in college athletics. Founded in 1912, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) is the oldest historically Black athletic conference in the United States.
The tournament is more than a series of games; it represents a long-standing partnership that supports Baltimore City Public Schools students and encourages them to consider their future paths in college and career.
Over the years, CIAA has remained a committed partner, and this year continues that tradition. From shoe giveaways to a college fair, the organization creates meaningful opportunities that equip our students with the confidence, resources, and exposure they need to grow, expand their horizons, and take bold steps toward their future.
“I’m so happy that we get to share the HBCU experience with all of Baltimore, especially since I am a CIAA alumna of Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, the first degree-granting HBCU,” said Tenne' Thrower, Community Engagement Administrator for City Schools, who manages this strategic partnership. “CIAA has not only given amazing experiences to our students through attending the tournament, but has also supported the importance of literacy, community service, leadership, and college readiness through programming in our schools and local neighborhoods.”
This year events include:
Samaritans Feet Shoe Locker Presentations – Distributing shoes to more than 350 students, along with a $1,500 Home Depot donation supporting school wish list items.
Food Lion Giveaway – Supporting the school food pantry. Distributing over 200 bags of groceries.
DTLR X City Schools Kings & Queens College Readiness & Service Panel – Engaged students in discussion focused on leadership, service, and preparation for life after high school.
College Exploration Experience Field Trips – More than 1,200 elementary, middle, and high school students attended tournament games, gaining exposure to collegiate athletics and campus culture.
High School Education Day – Students in grades 10–12 from 27 City Schools high schools participated in a college fair featuring onsite admissions and scholarship opportunities. Twenty-seven students will be receiving $500 book scholarships in partnership with DTLR ($20,000 scholarships).
“CIAA Literacy & Friends Championship Challenge” Winner Day – CIAA sponsored a book reading contest with three schools to inspire students to read. The winning school receives a classroom read-aloud sessions and a schoolwide pep rally celebrating literacy and student achievement. The winning school received Scholastic bucks to use during their next Scholastic Book Fair.
School Visits – Cheerleaders, band members, student-athletes, and representatives from member institutions visit schools to speak with students about setting goals and preparing for college and career pathways.
Championship Game Day – Students and families attended the final tournament game as part of the College Exploration Experience, concluding the week’s activities.
Year after year, CIAA demonstrates that athletics can open doors to education, leadership, and opportunity. As the tournament concludes, its impact continues to inspire in classrooms, in homes, and in the plans our students are building for their futures.