The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA®), the nation’s oldest historically Black athletic conference, has announced Baltimore native Pinky Cole Hayes as an official ambassador for the 2026 Food Lion CIAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championship Tournament. The tournament will return to Baltimore February 24–28, 2026, at CFG Bank Arena, continuing the city’s role as host following the recent extension of the CIAA’s partnership through 2029.
Cole Hayes—restaurateur, philanthropist, author, and cultural influencer—is the founder of the Slutty Vegan restaurant chain and Bar Vegan, a fast-growing food empire that began in Atlanta and now spans New York City, Dallas, and most recently Baltimore. Known for transforming the national conversation around plant-based fast food, Cole Hayes has built a brand that blends culinary innovation, entrepreneurship, and unapologetic creativity. Her company’s success has made her one of the most recognizable figures in modern food culture, while her philanthropic work through The Pinky Cole Foundation has empowered young entrepreneurs and supported marginalized communities across the country.
“Pinky Cole’s story reflects everything we hope to ignite through the CIAA — pride, perseverance, and purpose,” said CIAA Commissioner Jacqie McWilliams Parker. “Her Baltimore roots, entrepreneurial drive, and commitment to giving back make her the perfect ambassador to connect with our fans and future leaders as we bring the 2026 Tournament home to Charm City.”
Cole Hayes, who often speaks about how Baltimore shaped her determination and resilience, said the ambassador role is a full-circle moment.
“Everything I am started in Baltimore,” she said. “This city taught me how to be fearless and independent, to hustle hard, and to show up with heart. Being named a 2026 CIAA Tournament Ambassador feels like coming home to celebrate the people and the place that shaped me. I can’t wait to pour that same Baltimore energy into this incredible event.”
The CIAA Basketball Tournament is widely regarded as one of the most significant cultural gatherings in Black collegiate sports. Founded in 1912, the CIAA is the first and longest-running African American athletic conference in the United States and remains one of Division II’s most prominent and influential leagues. Today, the conference is governed by the presidents and chancellors of 12 member institutions, including Bowie State University, Johnson C. Smith University, Virginia State University, and Winston-Salem State University, among others. Its marquee event—the annual basketball tournament—draws more than 150,000 fans, alumni, and students from around the country and has twice been honored as a Champion of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism.
This year’s tournament will feature 22 men’s and women’s basketball games and a robust lineup of events that extend far beyond the court. Attendees can look forward to the free two-day Fan Fest, Education Day, the Career Expo, Greek Night, step shows, concerts, day parties, celebrity appearances, and a host of community-centered activities. With HBCU pride on full display, Baltimore is expected to once again transform into a vibrant celebration of sports, culture, legacy, and unity.
All tournament tickets are available now at CIAATournament.org. Fans can take advantage of the Black Friday ticket sale from November 28 through December 1 and receive $50 off Weekend General Admission Tickets by entering code CIAA at checkout.
As Baltimore prepares to welcome thousands of visitors, the CIAA, Pinky Cole Hayes, and local partners are calling on fans and alumni nationwide to “Come Home to Baltimore” for a week that promises high-energy basketball, community celebration, and an unforgettable display of HBCU excellence.