It is fitting that during February, Howard University’s swimming and diving program did what’s never been done before, creating another defining chapter in Howard Athletics history. This past Friday, the Bison men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams captured the Northeast Conference Swimming and Diving Championships, cementing the program’s place among the nation’s elite. 

The women’s team claimed its first NEC title in program history, while the men secured their second consecutive championship and third in four years — a remarkable run that underscores Howard’s growing dominance in the sport. 

For a program that stands alone as the only HBCU with a Division I swimming and diving team, the achievement carries significance far beyond the medal stand. It represents progress, possibility, and a powerful reminder that excellence in aquatics belongs to everyone. 

“This moment is about more than winning championships. It’s about showing young swimmers and divers — especially those who may not see themselves represented — that they belong in this sport and can excel at the highest level,” said Nic Askew (B.A. ‘00), who has been at the helm of the program since 2014, transforming the team into a national force.  

Excelling at the highest level is exactly what the Bison did during the NEC Championships, which took place at the Spire Institute in Geneva, Ohio, Feb. 17-20. From the very start, Howard student athletes made their presence felt capturing — and maintaining — first place throughout the meet. Heading into the championships, the men’s team were predicted to finish first and the women were predicted to finish in second place, but Askew was confident that both teams would finish strong. 

“I’ve seen these young men and women really push themselves this entire season and I have never doubted that we could win,” Askew said. “I am proud of what we did and know that this program continues to set the standard.” 

Throughout the championship meet, the Bison displayed depth, resilience, and a relentless competitive spirit, with standout performances across relays, individual events, and diving. In addition to winning both team championships, the Bison earned impressive individual honors, including Zion Wilson, a sophomore chemical engineering major from San Antonio, Texas (NEC Most Outstanding Diver); Zuilda “Zuzu” Nwaeze, a senior from Columbia, Maryland (NEC Most Outstanding Swimmer); NEC Diving Coach of the Year Courtenay Miller (B.B.A. ‘86 and M.Div. ‘04); and both teams, who earned NEC Coaching Staff of the Year. Nwaeze ends her Howard career with her third consecutive Most Outstanding Swimmer honor.  

A Black History Month Milestone 

Winning both titles during Black History Month adds an even deeper layer of significance. In a sport where Black athletes have historically been underrepresented, Howard continues to elevate visibility and open doors for future generations of swimmers and divers.  

“Watching these teams come together and accomplish so much really has been history in the making,” Askew said. “Never before has a women’s team from an HBCU won a conference title and never before has an HBCU won back-to-back swimming and diving conference titles. These wins speak volumes about the talent and competitive nature of our program and what is possible for student athletes considering attending an HBCU.” 

The championships are not only victories for the Bison, but also for representation in collegiate athletics — proof that excellence and diversity go hand in hand. 

A Force in the Sport 

With multiple conference titles, national recognition like the 2020 Sports Illustrated cover story, and a culture rooted in excellence, Howard Swimming and Diving has firmly established itself as a program to watch and one that is poised to dominate for the foreseeable future. 

As the Bison celebrate this historic sweep, one message rings clear: Howard is not just participating in the sport — it is helping shape its future and break barriers in the process.