Written By Lexx Thornton
Fisk University launched the first-ever HBCU gymnastics program nearly four years ago. The following season, Talladega joined the Lady Bulldogs. Last year, Wilberforce introduced its gymnastics squad to the world, but Talladega closed after one season.
Wilberforce University’s President, Dr. Vann R. Newkirk, gave the school’s team his unwavering support in the wake of Talladega and Fisk closing down their gymnastic programs.
“I’m coming to let you know that gymnastics at Wilberforce University is here to stay,” Dr. Newkirk said. “We are like granite. Our program is tough. We’re looking to win championships,”he added, instilling a sense of hope and optimism.
The situation at Fisk University is quite unusual. Gymnast Morgan Price quickly became known as the superstar of HBCU gymnastics, her achievements shining a bright light on the sport. She won individual gold medals at events and national meets, a testament to her talent and dedication.
Kyrstin Johnson of Talladega won the gold medal at the 2024 USAG event, as Price took home gold in the floor and beam. After Talladega shut down, Johnson joined Temple University’s gymnastics team.
Over the past three seasons, Morgan Price was the “Queen” of Division II gymnastics by winning two all-around gymnastics titles at the USAG national competitions in 2024 and 2025.In addition, she swept April’s event by winning all of the apparatus routines—vault, floor, uneven bars, and balance beam.
Shortly after Price’s victory in Shreveport, Louisiana, the nation’s first HBCU gymnastics program announced it would “discontinue” the sport following the 2026 season.
Wilberforce should feel optimistic about women’s gymnastics since Diamond Cook and Morgan Price earned First-Team All-American honors at the 2025 Women’s Collegiate Gymnastics National Invitational.
Cook could be one of the favorites to take over for Price, who officially transferred from Fisk to Arkansas in May.
The proverbial “lack of financial resources” has been the primary reason why both gymnastics teams chose to close down.
However, in a letter to alumni, Fisk University’s director of athletics, Valencia Jordan, stated:
“Currently, gymnastics is not an HBCUAC-sanctioned sport, resulting in considerable challenges for the university to schedule competitions and build a robust recruiting pipeline.”
She continued, “While we are tremendously proud of the history our gymnastics team has made in just three years, we look forward to focusing on our conference-affiliated teams to strengthen our impact in theHBCU Athletic Conference.”
Corrine Tarver abruptly vacated her role as head coach at Fisk University in February. In an interview with Mia Berry of Andscape, Tarver refuted the claim of recruiting challenges.
“This program is one that we funded, and we plan to keep on funding. We are the last HBCU gymnastics team standing, and we are proud and happy to carry that banner,” Dr. Newkirk emphatically said.
Whether or not Wilberforce stays true to its word isn’t the issue. After Price won back-to-back championships, where were the financial commitments/sponsorship from gymnastics corporations, past gymnasts, or an apparel manufacturer to a successful program?
The HBCU community shares fault, to a point. Very little recognition and financial support were available for Fisk and Talladega. There is also very little media coverage.