CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Bowie State University's Assistant Athletic Director of Student-Athlete Development/SWA Dr. W. Rene Howard has been selected as a member of the inaugural cohort of the CIAA Leadership Academy: The McWilliams Institute for Leadership & Legacy – Blueprint.

The Leadership Academy is a year-long professional development initiative created to cultivate and empower the next generation of leaders across the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA). As a member of the inaugural Blueprint cohort, Dr. Howard will participate in a transformational leadership experience designed to strengthen her impact on campus, within the conference, and throughout collegiate athletics.

The Blueprint cohort serves as the foundation for future Leadership Academy classes, representing the vision, purpose, and intentional leadership that will help shape the CIAA's future.

"I feel honored and humbled to be selected for the inaugural cohort of the McWilliams Leadership Academy," said Dr. Howard. "This experience will challenge me to grow as a leader and expand my perspective with purpose, integrity, and excellence."
Dr. Howard joins a distinguished group of professionals from across the conference committed to advancing leadership, service, and excellence in intercollegiate athletics.

The CIAA Leadership Academy emphasizes that leadership is more than a title; it is a commitment to serve, grow, and inspire others. Throughout the program, cohort members will engage in collaborative learning, leadership development, and mentorship opportunities designed to prepare them to make an even greater impact on their campuses, within the conference, and across collegiate athletics.

2026-27 CIAA Leadership Academy – Blueprint Inaugural Cohort

Dr. W. Rene Howard – Bowie State University
Malcolm Watts – Claflin University
Brion Dunlap – Claflin University
Rasha Gladney – Elizabeth City State University
Andre George – Elizabeth City State University
Jonathan Nelson-Chavis – Elizabeth City State University
Tra'Niqua McLaughlin – Johnson C. Smith University
Joseph Martin – Johnson C. Smith University
Cruz Castillo – Johnson C. Smith University
Shaelyn Greene – Lincoln (PA)
Zuri Saintphard – Lincoln (PA)
Queen Smith – Livingstone College
Pheadra Wyche – CIAA Conference Office

For the most up-to-date information on Bowie State Athletics and its 14 varsity sport teams, visit bsubulldogs.com.