The Olympics have always been a stage where the world’s best athletes showcase their talents and bring glory to their nations. For African American athletes, particularly those hailing from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), the Olympics have been a platform to demonstrate excellence, overcome barriers, and inspire future generations.
As we approach the 2024 Paris Olympics, it’s crucial to acknowledge the extensive history of past African American athletes who hailed from HBCUs to the current athletes of today continuing to highlight their long-term impact and HBCU legacy.
Early Pioneers
The history of African American athletes from HBCUs participating in the Olympics is nothing short of a testament to perseverance and excellence. One of the earliest pioneers was Alice Coachman from Tuskegee University. At the 1948 Olympics in London, Alice Coachman Davis won a gold medal in the high jump, breaking both the U.S. and Olympic records with a leap of 5 feet, 6 1/8 inches. Coachman won 25 national titles, most of which were in the high jump, where she claimed 10 consecutive titles from 1939 to 1948.
She gained her first high jump national title at the age of 16, reportedly walking off the basketball court and jumping higher than the world record. Coachman was also known as a fine sprinter, winning the outdoor 50-meter dash from 1943 through 1947, the outdoor 100 meters in 1942, 1945, and 1946, and the indoor 50 meters in 1945 and 1946. She also anchored Tuskegee Institute’s national champion 4×100 meter relay teams in 1941 and 1942 and attended Albany State University.
In the 1952 Helsinki Finland Games, Catherine Hardy (Lavender) of Fort Valley State, Mae Faggs (Starr) of Tennessee State, and Barbara Jones (Slater) won gold medals as members of the 4×400 meter relay team. Hardy ran the anchor leg for the quartet that set a world record of 45.9 seconds. Jones Slater won her medal at 15, making her the youngest-ever winner at the Olympics. In the 1956 Melbourne Australia Olympics, Mildred McDaniel (Singleton) of Tuskegee won the gold medal and broke the world record in the high jump, clearing 5 feet, 9 ¼ inches.
The Golden Era
The mid-20th century saw a surge in the number of African American Olympians from HBCUs. The 1960s and 1970s, in particular, were considered the golden years. Wilma Rudolph, a Tennessee State University alumna, who won three gold medals at the 1960 Rome Olympics, became the first American woman to achieve such a feat in a single Games.
Rudolph’s success was followed by other remarkable athletes like Edwin Moses from Morehouse College, who dominated the 400-meter hurdles, winning gold medals in 1976 and 1984.
North Carolina College’s (now North Carolina Central University) Lee Calhoun not only took the gold in the 110-meter hurdles but repeated the feat in Rome in 1960.
The Olympic legacy among HBCU athletes would continue into the latter part of the 20th century and the early 21st century. Athletes like Alonzo Babers from the Air Force Academy (not an HBCU but significant for representation), who won two gold medals in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, and Gail Devers from UCLA, who also had affiliations with HBCUs through coaching and mentoring, exemplify the ongoing excellence and influence of African American athletes connected to HBCUs.
HBCU Athletes Competing In The Olympics Today
Jessika Gbai – Howard University Alum
Jessika Gbai is a dynamic sprinter known for her exceptional speed and agility on the track. She has specialized in the 100m and 200m events, consistently posting impressive times and showcasing her remarkable athleticism. Gbai’s dedication and hard work have made her a standout athlete at both national and international levels.
Sade McCreath – Bethune-Cookman University Alum
Sade McCreath is a talented sprinter who has made a name for herself with her powerful performances in short-distance track events. Competing primarily in the 100m and 200m sprints, McCreath’s explosive speed and technical prowess have earned her recognition and accolades in collegiate athletics.
Danielle Williams – Johnson C. Smith University Alum
Danielle Williams is a distinguished sprinter who has garnered attention for her exceptional performances on the track. Competing in events such as the 100m and 200m, Williams has demonstrated remarkable speed and consistency. Her dedication to her sport has made her a standout athlete, both during her time at JCSU and in her post-collegiate career.
Monae’ Nichols – Bethune-Cookman University Alum (Transfer)
Monae’ Nichols is an accomplished sprinter who initially made her mark at Bethune-Cookman University before transferring to continue her athletic and academic journey. Despite her transfer, Nichols is still celebrated by BCU for her contributions and achievements in track and field. Known for her speed and competitive spirit, she has been a strong contender in events like the 100m and 200m sprints.
Chidi Okezie – Hampton University Alum
Chidi Okezie is an accomplished sprinter who has made significant strides in his athletic career. Specializing in the 200m and 400m events, Okezie’s speed and endurance have earned him a place among the top sprinters. His achievements on the track have brought recognition to himself and his alma mater.
The 2024 Paris Olympics will undoubtedly celebrate athletic excellence, and the inclusion of African American athletes from HBCUs will play a significant role in this discourse. Our presence and performance will continue to honor the legacy of past champions, inspire future generations, and contribute to the long-term growth and success of HBCUs. As we root for our HBCU athletes, we do so with recognition of the broader impact they have on their communities and the lasting legacy they are building for the future.