EXPANDING HORIZONS: THE HBCU ATHLETIC CONFERENCE'S JOURNEY INTO DIVERSITY
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Posted By: Catalina Deossa on July 12, 2024 Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes, currently serving as the commissioner of the HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) based in New Orleans, recently participated in the She’s Got Time Women in Sports Summit. There, she engaged deeply in discussions surrounding leadership, emotional intelligence, and advocacy within the sports industry. Drawing on her extensive background as a former student-athlete and basketball coach, Barnes has transitioned into a prominent role in athletic administration. She notably became the first full-time employee of the HBCUAC since 2022. Under her stewardship, the HBCUAC has seen significant growth, expanding its membership to encompass 13 schools spread across several states and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Barnes has been pivotal in redefining the conference's identity and enhancing its presence within collegiate sports. This evolution culminated in a strategic decision to rebrand from the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference to the HBCU Athletic Conference, accompanied by the tagline “Where Winners Thrive.” The decision to rebrand was driven by a desire for a more distinctive identity that aligns with the conference's mission and facilitates future expansion. Barnes collaborated closely with stakeholders, including student-athletes, coaches, and athletic directors, to ensure the new identity resonated with all members. This change marks a bold step toward elevating the conference's visibility and influence within the competitive landscape of HBCU conferences, distinguishing it from other divisions within NCAA Division I and II. Looking ahead, Barnes is focused on forging strategic partnerships and leveraging digital platforms such as HBCUAC TV to further enhance the conference's reach and impact. These initiatives are aimed at solidifying the HBCUAC's position as a leading entity in college sports, while also providing opportunities for growth and development for its member institutions. In summary, Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes's leadership has not only reshaped the HBCUAC but also underscores her commitment to advancing opportunities for women in sports leadership and advocacy. Her dedication reflects her commitment to empowering the next generation of athletes and administrators alike. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Catalina Deossa
Archaeologist, CHRONOS SAS Florida Int`l Univ class of 2011 Member Since April 2024 |
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