CIAA STUDENT LEADERS REPRESENT MEMBER INSTITUTIONS AT 2026 McLENDON EXPERIENCE
Conference continues its commitment to student leadership, professional development, and career exposure through transformative experiences
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (October 9, 2026) — The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA®) continued its commitment to developing the next generation of leaders through the participation of 12 student representatives at the 2026 McLendon Experience, held October 1–2 in Durham, North Carolina.
Hosted by the McLendon Foundation, the two-day event brought together emerging student leaders and sports industry professionals for an experience centered on leadership development, mentorship, networking, and career exploration. The initiative provided students with valuable exposure to opportunities within the sports industry while encouraging personal and professional growth.
As part of its ongoing commitment to student success, the CIAA selected one student from each of its 12 member institutions to participate in the experience. The opportunity reflects the conference's dedication to preparing students for success beyond the classroom and athletic competition by connecting them with industry professionals, meaningful resources, and experiences that support their future aspirations.
"At the CIAA, we recognize that our responsibility goes far beyond athletics. We have an obligation to create opportunities that expose our students to new possibilities, help them build meaningful relationships, and prepare them to lead in whatever career path they choose," said CIAA Commissioner Jacqie McWilliams Parker. "The McLendon Experience represents the type of investment we believe is essential to student success. When we provide our students with access, mentorship, and opportunities to learn from leaders in the industry, we are helping shape the next generation of professionals who will carry our legacy forward."
2026 CIAA McLendon Experience Student Representatives
The CIAA proudly recognizes the following students who represented their respective institutions at the 2026 McLendon Experience:
| Member Institution |
Student Representative |
| Bluefield State University |
Nick Owens |
| Bowie State University |
Jevonte Williams |
| Claflin University |
Lauryn Foster |
| Elizabeth City State University |
Natasha Melbye |
| Fayetteville State University |
Paige Simmons-Norris |
| Johnson C. Smith University |
Rylee Ghent |
| Lincoln University (PA) |
Tyleek Fields |
| Livingstone College |
Jasiyah Crawford |
| Shaw University |
Jazmine Whitley |
| Virginia State University |
Whitney Hopson |
| Virginia Union University |
Brayden Kaminski |
| Winston-Salem State University |
Terrence Kearney |
The 2026 McLendon Experience featured a keynote fireside chat with Jon Patricof, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Athletes Unlimited, an investor and entrepreneur whose work has helped create innovative opportunities within professional sports.
Throughout the experience, students had the opportunity to engage in conversations about leadership, career development, and the evolving landscape of the sports industry. The program emphasized the importance of building professional relationships, identifying career interests, and understanding the many pathways available within athletics and sports business.
For the CIAA, participation in the McLendon Experience represents another opportunity to strengthen its commitment to student engagement and leadership development. By creating access to experiences that extend beyond traditional academic and athletic settings, the conference continues to empower students with the knowledge, confidence, and connections needed to pursue their professional goals.
Investing in the Next Generation of CIAA Leaders
The CIAA believes that meaningful student experiences have the power to create lasting impact. Through initiatives such as the McLendon Experience, the conference continues to provide opportunities that expose students to new environments, connect them with professionals, and equip them with valuable tools for future success.
These opportunities are made possible through a continued commitment to student development and the support of individuals and organizations who believe in investing in the next generation of leaders.
You can make a difference in the lives of CIAA students. Support future student experiences, leadership development initiatives, and professional growth opportunities by making a contribution today.
To donate and help support future CIAA student experiences, visit:
Support CIAA Student Experiences
Media Contact
Matisse S. Lee
Senior Associate Commissioner, Communications & Marketing, Special Projects / SWA
Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA)
mlee@theciaa.com
About the CIAA
Founded in 1912, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) is the first and longest-running African American athletic conference in the United States. Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, the CIAA is an NCAA Division II conference consisting of 12 historically Black colleges and universities. The conference sponsors 14 championships and annually engages more than 150,000 fans through its athletic events and championship experiences. The CIAA Men's and Women's Basketball Tournament is among the nation's premier collegiate sporting events and is recognized for its significant economic impact on host communities. Governed by the presidents and chancellors of its member institutions, the CIAA remains committed to academic excellence, athletic achievement, student development, and preserving the rich legacy of historically Black colleges and universities.