**Howard University Makes Historic Strides at NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships**
Eugene, Oregon, June 12, 2025 – Howard University’s track and field program has once again rewritten the history books with a remarkable performance at the 2025 NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships. This year, the Bison sent a dozen student athletes to compete on the national stage, marking the largest contingent from any Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in recent memory. The team’s participation in several events, including the men’s and women’s 400-meter hurdles, women’s 100-meter dash, women’s 100-meter hurdles, women’s 4×100 relay, and men’s 4×400 relay, underscores the program’s resurgence as a force in collegiate athletics.
The NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships, held at Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon, are a culmination of the season’s hard work and dedication for Howard University’s athletes. Head Coach David Oliver, a Howard alum, expressed his pride in the team’s achievements, noting, “This is not just a coaching job at Howard; it’s a passion project to make sure we get to the level I know we should be.” Oliver’s enthusiasm is contagious, as the team looks to build on this momentum for future seasons.
Howard University’s track and field program has been on a steep trajectory since Oliver’s arrival. The team’s success is a testament to the coach’s leadership and the university’s commitment to athletic excellence. Graduate student Noah Langford led the Bison with a standout performance in the 400-meter hurdles semifinals, earning Second Team All-America honors with a time of 50.50 seconds. This achievement marks the first time since 1989 that a Howard men’s long hurdler has received All-America recognition, highlighting the program’s growth and potential for national recognition.
The broader context of HBCU athletics is also significant here. Historically Black Colleges and Universities have a rich athletic tradition that spans over a century, with many programs contributing significantly to both sports and civil rights history in America. Despite these contributions, HBCU sports often receive limited mainstream media attention, making Howard’s recent achievements all the more noteworthy. The success of Howard University’s track program resonates not only with HBCU alumni and students but also with sports enthusiasts who appreciate the unique cultural significance of these institutions.
The cultural importance of HBCU athletics extends beyond the playing field. It is deeply intertwined with the broader traditions and values of these institutions, including vibrant homecoming celebrations, spirited marching bands, and a strong sense of community and alumni engagement. For Howard University, this cultural significance is particularly evident in its homecoming events, which are renowned for their energy and camaraderie. The athletic achievements serve as a source of pride for the entire university community, reflecting the values of hard work, perseverance, and excellence that define HBCU culture.
In recent years, trends in college athletics, such as the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policy and the transfer portal, have significantly impacted the HBCU sports landscape. These changes offer new opportunities for athletes to leverage their fame and talent, while also presenting challenges in terms of recruitment and retention. As HBCUs navigate these shifts, they continue to rely on their strong cultural heritage and community support to attract top talent and maintain competitiveness.
Looking ahead, Howard University’s track and field program is poised for continued success. With a strong foundation laid by Coach Oliver and his team, the Bison are likely to remain competitive in both the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and on the national stage. The upcoming season will be crucial in determining how effectively the program can build on this momentum, but for now, the focus is on celebrating a historic achievement that further solidifies Howard University’s place in the annals of HBCU sports history.
The immediate future for Howard University’s athletes involves reflecting on their accomplishments and preparing for the next challenge. As the program continues to grow and evolve, it will be essential to maintain the high level of performance that has marked this season. With a strong team dynamic and seasoned leadership, the Bison are well-positioned to continue making strides in the track and field world.
Upcoming competitions will provide further opportunities for Howard University’s athletes to showcase their skills and make their mark on the collegiate athletics scene. The program’s growth and success will undoubtedly inspire other HBCU institutions to strive for similar achievements, further enriching the vibrant tapestry of Black college sports.