Clark Atlanta University (CAU) is set to make a grand appearance at the 2024 U.S. Open in New York City, representing the rich heritage, talented students, and influential leaders of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
As part of the annual HBCU Live at the U.S. Open celebration, CAU will have a prominent presence, highlighting the university’s deep connection to the sport of tennis and the enduring impact of HBCUs.
Leading the charge will be CAU’s world-renowned Marching Panthers, who will take the stage at the iconic Arthur Ashe Stadium during the U.S. Open. Known for their electrifying performances and unparalleled energy, the Marching Panthers will captivate the audience and showcase the rich cultural heritage of HBCUs.
Additionally, the CAU New York Alumni Chapter will host a “Meet and Greet” in Manhattan with the CAU Marching Panthers and Cheer Squad band and cheer team members in celebration of their U. S. Open 2024 performance.
Furthermore, CAU’s esteemed president, Dr. George T. French Jr., Ph.D., will take center stage as a panelist for the highly anticipated “The Future of HBCU Equity Talk: Black Wealth.” Addressing the critical issue of building generational wealth within the Black community, Dr. French’s expertise and insights will undoubtedly contribute to a thought-provoking discussion.
Additionally, President French will have the honor of participating in the ceremonial coin toss, marking the start of a highly anticipated match at the U.S. Open. This prestigious moment will further solidify CAU’s deep connection to the sport of tennis and the HBCU legacy within the game.
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to represent Clark Atlanta University at the U.S. Open,” said Dr. French. “This event is not only a celebration of the sport, but also a celebration of the enduring impact of HBCUs on the world of sports and beyond. We are proud to showcase the talent, passion, and pride of our university and our community.”
The CAU community’s presence at the U.S. Open will undoubtedly be a powerful display of the university’s commitment to excellence, diversity, and the empowerment of HBCU institutions. This strategic engagement will not only raise the profile of CAU but also highlight the vital role that HBCUs continue to play in shaping the world of sports and beyond.
About Clark Atlanta University
Clark Atlanta University was formed with the consolidation of Atlanta University and Clark College. Atlanta University, established in 1865 by the American Missionary Association, was the nation’s first institution to award graduate degrees to African Americans. Clark College, established four years later in 1869, was the nation’s first four-year liberal arts college to serve a primarily African American student population. Today, with nearly 4,000 students, CAU is the largest of the four institutions (CAU, Morehouse College, Spelman College, and Morehouse School of Medicine) that comprise the Atlanta University Center Consortium. It is also the largest of the 37-member UNCF institutions. To learn more about Clark Atlanta University, visit www.cau.edu.