Four Spelman College students are advancing to the 35^th Honda Campus All-Star Challenge (HCASC) National Championship Tournament, America’s premier academic competition among HBCUs. The students will compete among 31 other teams from April 11 - April 12, 2024, on the corporate campus of American Honda in Torrance, Calif., for the HSCASC National Championship title and a portion of over $500,000 in institutional grants provided by Honda.

The HCASC is a year-round program that celebrates HBCU academic excellence and showcases the best and brightest minds from HBCUs across the country, bringing together over 325 HBCU students, coaches, presidents and institutional representatives. The competition features 32 teams who 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.

After advancing in the HCASC National Qualifying Tournament in February, Spelman College will compete in the HCASC for the 23^rd year in a row. Daniel Bascelli, 17-year HCASC coach of Spelman College and 2019 HCASC Coach of the Year, will coach the team of students.

Representing Spelman College:

• Maya R. Leflore, C’2026, mathematics major from Jackson, Miss.
• Claire Jackson, C’2024, English major from Oakland, Calif.  
• Frances A. Taylor, C’2024, international studies mahor from Hanover, N.H.
• Hailey A. Jones, C’2025, history major from Oakland, Calif.

“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.

To view the competition, tune in to the livestream April 11 –12 atwww.hcasc.com.