WASHINGTON – Howard University launched its Electronic Sports (Esports) Lab in the Armour J. Blackburn University Center, sponsored by Verizon Wireless and the board of the HBCU Esports League. 

The Verizon Foundation, Cxmmunity, awarded the University $100,000 to enhance the University’s Esports program, a form of competition using video games. The funds from this gift aided in the buildout of an esports lab on the campus of Howard University. Gaming Cxmmunity Co. has worked with the University to secure equipment and furniture used to create the Esports/innovation lab for team practices, scrimmages, game day matches, and other STEM related activities sanctioned by the University.  

 “I am so proud of being a part of the innovative team of students, faculty and organizations, especially Verizon Forward and Cxmmunity so that Howard University offers additional opportunities of learning. Howard Forward continues,” said Deborah Johnson, professor and interim chair of health, human performance, and leisure studies. 

In addition to the new Esports Lab, a team of five female students pursuing technology-related degrees were awarded the Verizon Game Forward Scholarship, a $1 million commitment with the mission to increase female representation in the gaming industry and bolster opportunity and presence in STEM careers. The scholarship recipients were also guaranteed internships at top tech and gaming companies, including Verizon and its partners, ensuring…