The journey to the 35^th Honda Campus All-Star Challenge (HCASC) National Championship Tournament is underway for the team of scholars from Albany State University. HCASC, America's premier academic competition among HBCUs, annually brings together more than 325 HBCU students, coaches, presidents, and institutional representatives for a tournament that uniquely combines educational and personal development experiences beyond the classroom. After advancing in the HCASC National Qualifying Tournament in February, Albany State University is one of 32 teams that will compete in April on the corporate campus of American Honda in Torrance, Calif., for the HCASC National Championship title and a portion of the more than $500,000 in institutional grants provided by Honda. Tune in to the live stream April 11^th –12^th at www.hcasc.com.

This is the 28th year Albany State University has participated in the Honda Campus All-Star Challenge. Dontavious Scott, a Senior majoring in Biology from Albany, GA; Joel Felton, a Senior majoring in Management from Albany, GA; Terrence Page, Jr., a Junior majoring in Mass Communications from Snellville, GA; and Lauren Jenkins, a Junior majoring in Nursing from Stockbridge, GA will represent Albany State University. Dr. John L. Williams will coach the team.

“These young scholars continue to impress me. They are excited about the tournament and ready to bring the prize back to ASU,” said Dr. Williams, Associate Professor of Biology. “I count myself blessed to work with these wonderful young students, and I can only hope that through our work, I am able to help them be the best young scholars they can be.”

Honda Campus All-Star Challenge is a year-round program that celebrates HBCU academic excellence and showcases the best and brightest minds from HBCUs nationwide. The 32 teams, comprised of four students from participating schools, will go head-to-head in a battle of scholastic skill, quickly answering questions on a range of topics including history, science, math, pop culture, and more.

“The Honda Campus All-Star Challenge has provided a national stage for generations of talented HBCU students to display their impressive academic capabilities and the rich culture of HBCUs,” said Yvette Hunsicker, vice president of Corporate Social Responsibility and Inclusion & Diversity at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “Honda is proud of our longstanding commitment to supporting and inspiring the next generation of leaders by providing HBCU students with the tools and experiences they need to live their dreams.”

HCASC challenges students to expand their scope of knowledge, with the opportunity to gain lifelong learning skills, including leadership, collaboration, and sportsmanship. Participating students also can build camaraderie with students from other HBCUs and gain networking and mentorship opportunities with HCASC alumni, volunteers, and Honda associates. Additionally, Honda offers development seminars to help prepare students for success after graduation.