CIAA Membership Awards Luncheon Celebrates Student Athletes and Leaders
On May 12, 2026, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) held its Membership Awards Luncheon in Charlotte, N.C. This event recognized exceptional student athletes, administrators, and institutions for their outstanding contributions in academics, athletics, and community service during the 2025-2026 academic year.
The luncheon began with Matisse Lee, who celebrated the resilience and growth of the CIAA. He emphasized how members have worked hard to uphold the conference’s values and traditions.
Highlighting student leadership, the CIAA honored members of the 2026 Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). Darius Satterfield, Camdyn Peck, Ethaliah Edouard, and Kaiya Wright received awards for their significant impact through initiatives such as the CIAA Unity Walk and the Literacy and Friends Championship.
The event also celebrated the CIAA Scholar Athletes of the Year. Faith Kiplimo from Fayetteville State University was recognized as the top female athlete, maintaining a remarkable 4.0 GPA in Nursing, while Jamieson Alston of Winston-Salem State University earned the male title with a 3.89 GPA in Business Administration.
Additionally, Jade Holiday and Janiah Beech received the Eric Moore Postgraduate Scholarship. This scholarship supports students pursuing advanced degrees in athletics and sports-related fields.
Awards for outstanding administrators were presented as well. Dr. Deborah Quick from Johnson C. Smith University was named Faculty Athletics Representative of the Year, while Deron Norwood and Tristan Gunter received their respective awards for compliance and sports information.
Fayetteville State University was awarded the Loretta Taylor Women’s All Sports Award, while Virginia Union University took home the C.H. Williams Men’s All Sports Award. Virginia Union also received recognition for having the Most Positive Game Environment, as voted by the SAAC.
As the luncheon concluded, CIAA Commissioner Jacqie McWilliams Parker reflected on the achievements of the year. She highlighted the importance of recognizing the hard work and dedication of all honorees.
In a world where student athletes are often overlooked, the CIAA’s commitment to celebrating academic and athletic excellence stands out. With over 150,000 fans attending their championship events, the CIAA continues to be a leading force in promoting sportsmanship and leadership in collegiate athletics.
For more information on CIAA and its initiatives, you can visit theciaa.com.
