TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida A&M University (FAMU) Associate Professor of Global Business, Daaim Shabazz, Ph.D. has been named the 2025 Chess Educator of the Year by the University of Texas-Dallas (UT Dallas) Chess Program. The prestigious recognition underscores Shabazz’s contributions to chess education, outreach, and the development of chess culture within Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

“Chess is more than a game; it’s a vehicle for intellectual empowerment, discipline, and strategic thinking,” said Shabazz. “I am honored to receive this recognition from UT Dallas and remain committed to advancing chess education, particularly at HBCUs, where we are seeing incredible talent emerge.”

UT Dallas, a leading institution in collegiate chess education since 1996, bestows the Chess Educator of the Year award on individuals who have demonstrated a profound impact on chess education, coaching, and community engagement. Shabazz, a lifelong chess advocate, is widely known as the founder of The Chess Drum, a platform dedicated to covering chess news and achievements of players from the African Diaspora. His work has elevated awareness of chess within underrepresented communities and has inspired a new generation of chess players at HBCUs and beyond.

Growing up in Chicago, Shabazz discovered chess after seeing two neighbors playing at night under a lamp. The next day, the professor said he looked up how to play chess in an encyclopedia and learned the moves.

Shabazz’s leadership has been instrumental in revitalizing and growing the FAMU Chess Club, where he serves as advisor. The club recently held its first-ever tournament following a successful interest meeting earlier this year. Under his guidance, the club has gained momentum, drawing students eager to refine their skills and compete in national tournaments. The club’s rise began with a strong presence at the FAMU Spring Club Fair, where it attracted a diverse group of students passionate about the game.

In 2024, the HBCU chess community saw a historic milestone when FAMU student Caleb Parker was crowned the 2024 HBCU Chess Champion, further solidifying the university’s growing prominence in the chess world.

The UTD Chess Program, founded by Tim Redman, Ph.D., has been at the forefront of collegiate chess, boasting numerous national and international titles. The program's commitment to excellence makes this recognition particularly significant.

UP NEXT: FAMU Chess Club plans to participate in the 2025 HBCU Chess Championship on April 12-13 in Atlanta.

Back to Stories