**WHAT:** Clark Atlanta University (CAU) will host a press conference to officially introduce Erica Payton as the inaugural head coach of the Clark Atlanta University Panthers women's golf program. Coach Payton brings championship excellence and a proven commitment to developing student-athletes to lead this historic new program. **WHO:** - Dr. Jerel Drew, Athletic Director, Clark Atlanta University - Erica Payton, Inaugural Head Coach, Women's Golf - Members of the CAU Athletics Department - Students, alumni, and community supporters **WHEN:** Thursday, May 14, 2026; Press Conference: 1:30 PM ET **WHERE:** Aldridge Auditorium in the Thomas W. Cole Research Center for Science & Technology building, Clark Atlanta University Campus; 223 James P. Brawley Drive SW, Atlanta, GA 30314 **WHY:** The introduction of Coach Erica Payton marks a historic milestone for Clark Atlanta University as the only HBCU in Atlanta with a women's golf program. A 2023 inductee into the Jackson State University Sports Hall of Fame and member of a legendary athletic family, Coach Payton brings a championship pedigree and a commitment to opening doors for young women in spaces where they have historically been underrepresented. Her dedication to competitive excellence and player development aligns seamlessly with CAU's vision for growth, parity, and opportunity. **VISUALS:** - Press conference with CAU Athletics leadership and Coach Payton - Engaged student-athletes and alumni **MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:** - Interviews with CAU Athletics leadership and Coach Payton - B-roll of the press conference and CAU athletics **About Clark Atlanta University** Clark Atlanta University was formed in 1988 through the consolidation of Atlanta University (1865) and Clark College (1869), both historically Black institutions. CAU is a private, research-intensive institution offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. The University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award the baccalaureate, master's, and doctoral degrees. **For more information, visit** [**www.cau.edu.**](http://www.cau.edu/) ## For Media Inquiries For media inquiries please contact Clark Atlanta University at [404-703-2914](tel:404-703-2914)