As chair of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association Board of Directors and president of Bowie State University, the host institution for the 2022 CIAA Tournament, I welcome basketball fans from across the country to Charm City to celebrate our student athletes and the 12 institutions preparing them for productive futures.
The tournament’s return to Baltimore for the first time since 1952 is result of a collective effort by city, state and local business leaders with a vision for a vibrant event that would engage every corner of the city and support the development of our youth.
For Bowie State, this return to Baltimore has special meaning because our roots as an institution were first planted here at the corner of Calvert and Saratoga Streets in 1865. We are proud that our legacy
as the oldest Historically Black Institution in Maryland developing bold leaders and putting them on a path to success began in this great city. Today Bowie State is leading the way in preparing graduates to meet the evolving workplace in STEM and behavioral science careers and teachers equipped with culturally responsive skills for diverse classrooms. Our programs in digital media arts are also gaining wide recognition.
During the five-day tournament, Feb. 22 – 26, CIAA student athletes will display the highest levels of Division II athleticism on the court of Royal Farms Arena, but this tournament is about more than basketball. Over the course of its 75-year history, the CIAA Tournament has become a time for family reunions, alumni gatherings and social events like none other. Fans will find a wide variety of entertainment activities, as well as personal and professional development opportunities advancing the CIAA’s commitment to celebrate athletics and education.
I invite you to explore all that the 2022 CIAA Tournament has to offer. Your participation in official CIAA activities will have the added benefit of supporting scholarships for students at each of the conference institutions. I thank you in advance for your support of our students. Enjoy the tournament!
Sincerely,
Aminta H. Breaux