KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) is kicking Black History Month off by celebrating the 23 (out of the 107) Historically Black Colleges and University's (HBCU) NAIA members across the country.

The NAIA will celebrate one of its HBCU's each day by showcasing their history, culture and how they flourish in academics, athletics and more.

The NAIA recently added to its strategic pillars, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), by forming a new committee who drives these efforts called, NAIA RISE (Respect, Inclusivity, Support and Education).

"The NAIA is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion among its student-athletes, coaches, and administrators," said Paige Salveter, NAIA Vice President of Marketing. "We strive to create and maintain an inclusive culture that fosters participation for student-athletes and career opportunities for coaches and administrators from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds. We believe that Diversity and Inclusion improves the learning environment for all student-athletes and yields excellence within the Association." 

The NAIA has long been a leader in positive change regarding social issues. As an athletic organization that was the first to offer opportunities to women and people of color.

For a list of all 23 institutions featured, click here!