Johnson C Smith University Partners with Riot Games
The race to provide esports resources for colleges continues to heat up. Johnson C Smith University announced that they are joining forces with Riot Games to flesh out their esports program. The HBCU is at the center of a new HBCU esports league that begins next year. So, winning the support of a company like Riot only helps their claim as a leader in the space.
Big Dev On Campus
The new agreement gives JCSU access to one of world’s top esports developers. Riot Games created League of Legends, arguably the biggest esport in the world. In addition to League, they released the tactical shooter Valorant to a ravenous new player base. Riot says that they’ll provide curriculum support, lecturers, internships and scholarships.
“Riot is humbled to team up with JCSU and encourage students to pursue opportunities in the growing Esports industry. This partnership amplifies Riot’s own diversity & inclusion endeavors, supports outreach programs and creates opportunities for diverse candidates through scholarships and internships.”
Scott Adametz – Riot Games
There’s a lack of Black and Latino students involved in esports. So, it’s a big victory for Johnson C Smith, as they continue to build their esports curriculum. As it stands they are already an esports management program, one of the first for HBCUs. In addition to the educational elements of the partnership, Riot is also helping to outfit the JCSU Golden Bulls Esports Lab.
“We are excited and thankful for the ongoing support, continued growth and educational/industry recognition of what we are building with our Esports/Gaming educational program and ecosystem. This fabulous strategic partnership with industry leader, Riot Games, will reap great benefits for our students, JCSU, and the HBCU community-at large.”
John L. Cash Jr. – Adjunct Professor At JCSU
A partnership with Riot gives JCSU a big boost in recruiting esports-minded students. If the promises of scholarships and career advisement work out, its a boon for diversity in esports. At all levels, there’s a need for more representation. So programs like this at HBCUs are a step in the right direction.
Featured Image: Johnson C Smith University Athletics