2025 HBCU Chess Classic approaches!

Daaim Shabazz March 31, 2025

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1st HBCU Chess Classic at Morris Brown College — **1st HBCU Chess Classic** at Morris Brown College, 2023
*Photo by TBO Chess Society*

“The HBCU Chess Classic is more than just a tournament; it’s a movement.”
~Alan Cowan, co-founder of TBO and co-organizer of the event

3rd HBCU Chess Classic

April 12-13th, 2025

African American Hall of Fame at Morehouse College
830 Westview Dr., SW Atlanta, GA 30314

The 2025 HBCU Chess Classic is only two weeks away, and things are heating up as teams complete their arrangements. The five-round tournament is G30+5 with two sections: HBCU Students and HBCU Alumni.

The registration deadline for the 3rd edition is April 10th. Each five-player team must complete the forms below, including verifying each student with the university registrar.

The 3rd Annual HBCU Chess Classic Returns to Morehouse College

ATLANTA, GA – April 12-13, 2025 – The Black Odyssey (TBO) is bringing back the HBCU Chess Classic for its third year, continuing its mission to celebrate strategy, intellect, and Black excellence in the game of chess. Held at Morehouse College’s King’s Chapel from 10 AM to 6 PM, this two-day event will bring together some of the sharpest minds from HBCUs nationwide.

This year’s tournament will feature top competitors from Howard University, Hampton University, North Carolina A&T University, Spelman College, Morehouse College, Clark Atlanta University, Morris Brown College, Florida A&M University, Texas Southern University, Central State University, and newcomers Tennessee State University and Albany State University.

With past champions from Howard University, Florida A&M, North Carolina A&T University, and Hampton University setting the bar high, this year’s competition promises intense matchups as schools compete for the third time.

North Carolina A&T Aggies, 1st place team (2024 HBCU Chess Classic)
Photo by Daaim Shabazz/The Chess Drum

“The HBCU Chess Classic is more than just a tournament; it’s a movement,” said Alan Cowan, CEO of The Black Odyssey. “We are creating a space where Black excellence thrives in chess, leadership, and beyond. Seeing the passion and talent at this event each year is a testament to the power of community, critical thinking and competition.”

Last year’s event left a lasting impression. Caleb Parker, a sophomore from Florida A&M University and the 2024 individual champion, reflected on his experience:

“I feel great. This is my sixth year playing chess more seriously, and I believe this is a testament to the hard work I’ve done. So I am very thankful
for this opportunity. I’m grateful to the organizers, Alan and Shaniah. They did a fantastic job organizing this tournament, and I look forward to coming again next year.”

~Caleb Parker, Florida A&M University