Fisk University continues to lead with disruption. Morgan Price etched her name in history by becoming the first HBCU student to earn a title in the USA Gymnastics women’s collegiate all-around competition. She scored 39.225 on floor exercise (9.850), uneven bars (9.850), balance beam (9.725), and vault (9.800). Her groundbreaking achievement highlights her individual prowess and underscores the rich talent pool within HBCUs.

We first met Price on the timeline after she and her teammates made history in January 2023 at their first meet in Las Vegas, Nevada, making Fisk University the first HBCU to participate in the NCAA championship. Throughout her journey, Price exhibited exceptional skill and resilience, becoming a Zillennial athlete to watch and become an inspiration to young girls.

“It’s so amazing that we’re being role models for little girls coming behind us,” Price told GU in February 2023. “At every single meet we’ve been to, after the meet, there have been at least ten little girls that come up to us and be like, ‘Oh my gosh, we want to be like you one day.”

Read ‘Fisk Gymnastics Hosting New Year Meet Celebrating Diversity’

Price’s historic triumph symbolizes the power of perseverance and the limitless potential found within HBCU athletics programs. By breaking down barriers, she has paved the way for greater inclusivity and diversity in collegiate sports. Her success underscores the importance of providing opportunities for HBCU athletes and investing in their talents. “The Price is Right; Etch her name in the HISTORY BOOKS; Morgan Price is the 2024 USAG All-Around National Champion,” The Official Fisk Instagram posted.

As the first HBCU athlete to secure a championship title in gymnastics, Price’s achievement holds profound significance in pursuing equity and representation in sports. Her groundbreaking accomplishment reminds us of the untapped talent and potential within HBCUs, highlighting the need for increased recognition and support for these institutions’ athletics programs.

In celebrating Morgan Price’s historic achievement, it’s time to bring in more collective efforts for those who have supported and championed diversity and inclusion in sports. “There are so many Black women athletes out there that are amazing and that are Olympians, so I hope that we get as much recognition as them because we’re just as good as them in my eyes,” Price said. 

Read ‘Fisk Gymnastics Team Opens Up About Making History For HBCUs’

About the Author: Kenyatta Victoria is the lead writer for Essence GU, working on all things pop culture, politics, entertainment and business. Throughout her time at GU, she’s garnered devoted readers and specializes in the Zillennial point of view.