PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (Jan. 30, 2025) – The Houston Astros Caravan made an unforgettable stop at Prairie View A&M University, bringing excitement, inspiration, and incredible opportunities to students.
Thanks to a strategic partnership between PVAMU’s Center for Careers & Professional Development and the Astros, the University community had the exclusive chance to engage in a Q&A session with Astros representatives, gaining valuable insights into internships, careers in sports, and the journey to professional success. Students also got to connect with players and industry professionals, making this event a game-changer for those looking to break into the sports world.
A huge shoutout to the Houston Astros organization for investing in our HBCU community and empowering the next generation of leaders on and off the field. This partnership is more than just baseball—it’s about opening doors, creating networks, and building a legacy of excellence!
The excitement of the Astros Caravan was further amplified by the generous $25,000 check presented to the Presidential Scholarship Fund. During the event, President Tomikia P. Legrande extended a special word of thanks to Paula Harris, SVP, Community Affairs & Astros Foundation Executive Director, and Daryl Wade, PVAMU alumnus and Director of Astros Youth Academy, for their unwavering commitment to our students’ success.
This is just one of the many partnerships the University has with the team. The 3rd Annual Cactus Jack Foundation HBCU Classic is set for Friday, February 14, through Sunday, February 16, 2025, at Daikin Park in Houston. This annual, round-robin collegiate baseball classic, designed by the Astros Youth Academy and Astros Foundation, highlights Historically Black Colleges and Universities and their baseball programs.
The nine-game tournament will feature Houston-area Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern University, along with four schools from neighboring Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama – Southern University, Grambling State, Jackson State, and Alabama A&M University.
Prairie View A&M and all HBCUs play a crucial role in fostering academic excellence, cultural pride, and community development. Our impact extends far beyond the classroom, shaping leaders who drive positive change and uplift their communities. Events like these not only celebrate athletic talent; this aligns perfectly with President LeGrande’s Strategic Plan 2035, particularly the pillar of Fostering Social Responsibility within Prairie View and Beyond.
President LeGrande said it best: 2025 at Prairie View A&M University is truly the year of momentum.
By Liz Faublas-Wallace
-PVAMU-
Photography by Nicholas Hunt, PVAMU Marketing and Communications