Program History
In 1989, American Honda Motor Co., Inc. approached the College Bowl Company and asked them to create a special version of its world-reknowned game for America's Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
In response to Honda's community involvement objectives, Campus All-Star Challenge was established. During the 1989-90 season, Campus All-Star Challenge play began at America's Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). All 89 four-year degree-granting HBCUs in the domestic U.S. are eligible for the program. Educational partners in the program are the ACUI, the Association of College Unions International and NAFEO, the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education.
From 1989 through 1995, the program involved campus competition, regionally based Sectional Playoffs and a National Championship Tournament. The finals during that time were broadcast on Black Entertainment Television (BET).
Starting in 1996, the program evolved to an annual gathering of HBCUs to compete at a face-to-face National Championship Tournament. Every spring, students, coaches, campus coordinators, volunteers, HBCU presidents, members of the Association of College Unions International (ACUI), and the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO) gather to crown one National Champion.
Since 1989, more than 75,000 HBCU students have participated in Honda Campus All-Star Challenge, and Honda has awarded over $6 million dollars in grants to the participating HBCUs. These grants have enhanced student programs, and the students' college experience.
HCASC alumni have gone on to pursue careers in science, medicine, aeronautics, industry and government. Many are still active in HCASC through campus activities, team training and other volunteer roles. In 2004, a Player Alumni Hall of Fame was established to recognize the contributions of outstanding individuals.
Today, HCASC remains the first and only academic competition of its kind, and its graduates continue to contribute to their alma maters and their communities.
The are several historical reports online: