Gulf Coast Athletic Conference to become HBCU Athletic Conference

The Gulf Coast Athletic Conference will rebrand as the HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC), the conference announced Thursday.

The decision to rebrand was part of the conference’s strategic expansion plan, led by Commissioner Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes and the Council of Presidents, aiming to align the conference’s identity with its growth initiatives.

“The HBCU Athletic Conference represents a dynamic evolution in our commitment to excellence and the empowerment of student-athletes,” said Dani Wright, Director of Strategic Communications & Marketing for the conference, in a statement. “As we embrace this new identity, we are excited to showcase the vibrant legacy of our member institutions. We have set out to share stories of impact at the intersection of heritage and higher education.”

In addition to the rebranding announcement and adopting a new tagline, “Where Winner Thrive,” the conference also announced the renewal of a three-year deal with Hope Credit Union (HOPE), marking what the conference states is the most substantial sponsorship agreement in its history.

“Since 1994, HOPE has generated over $3.9 billion in financing, impacting more than 2.7 million people across Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee. The conference and HOPE’s partnership reflects a shared commitment to the empowerment and development of student-athletes and their communities,” the statement added. “We are actively seeking partnerships with organizations that share our vision for promoting excellence in collegiate sports. Through these partnerships, we aim to create unparalleled opportunities for our student-athletes while enhancing their experiences at HBCUs.”

The new conference branding is set to take effect on July 1.