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Fisk University is making history, becoming the first HBCU in the country to have a Women's Artistic Gymnastics program.
The Nashville, Tennessee institution officially launched the program earlier this month, after a years-long campaign to bolster its athletics program. Former NBA star Kenny Anderson leads Fisk's basketball program, while retired soccer player Desmond Armstrong serves as the school's soccer head coach. Fisk's volleyball program has also been transformed under the leadership of coach Jessica Enderle.
"Fisk University has built remarkable momentum in recent years. The University is committed to preparing the next generation of leaders and c-suite executives," Fisk President Vann Newkirk said in a statement. "Student-athletes depend on an institution that enables them to translate their unique skills to professional success."
Fisk is no stranger to having well-known names in the areas of academic and social justice. The university was once home to notable former faculty members including W.E.B. DuBois, Booker T. Washington and boasts esteemed alumni including poet Nikki Giovanni and the late John Lewis.
Fisk will join other HBCUs including Grambling State University who've started hosted gymnastics conferences in partnership with Brown Girls Do Gymnastics.
According to Because of Them We Can, Fisk also recently launched a partnership with the Los Angeles Lakers to support students in securing professional opportunities in sports.
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