In response to Honda's special marketing needs, a separate competition track, called Honda Campus All-Star Challenge was established. During the 1989-90 season, Honda Campus All-Star Challenge play began at America's Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). All 89 four-year degree-granting HBCUs in the domestic U.S. are eligible for the program. Educational partners in the program are the ACUI, the Association of College Unions International and NAFEO, the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education.
From 1990 through 1995, the program involved campus competition, regionally based Sectional Playoffs and a National Championship Tournament. The finals during that time were broadcast on Black Entertainment Television (BET).
Starting in 1996, the program evolved to its present format whereby the first 64 HBCUs to complete the requirements advance to a face-to-face National Championship Tournament. Every spring, students, coaches, campus coordinators, volunteers, HBCU presidents, members of the Association of College Unions International, and the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education gather to crown one National Champion.
Over the past 20 years, more than 50,000 HBCU students have participated in the Honda Campus All-Star Challenge, and Honda has committed over $5 million dollars in grants to the participating HBCUs. These grants have enhanced student programs, and the students' college experience.
HCASC alumni have gone on to pursue careers in science, medicine, aeronautics, industry and government. Many are still active in HCASC through campus activities, team training and other volunteer roles.
Today, HCASC remains the first and only academic competition of its kind, and its graduates continue to contribute to their alma maters and their communities. The Honda Campus All-Star Challenge program will celebrate its 21st National Invitational Tournament in 2010.
Information obtained from College Bowl Company, © 2005. All Rights Reserved.
