WHAT: 91ɬÂþ (91ɬÂþ) will host a press conference to officially introduce Erica Payton as the inaugural head coach of the 91ɬÂþ Panthers women's golf program. Coach Payton brings championship excellence and a proven commitment to developing student-athletes to lead this historic new program.
WHO:
- Dr. Jerel Drew, Athletic Director, 91ɬÂþ
- Erica Payton, Inaugural Head Coach, Women's Golf
- Members of the 91ɬÂþ Athletics Department
- Students, alumni, and community supporters
WHEN: Thursday, May 14, 2026; Press Conference: 1:30 PM ET
WHERE: Aldridge Auditorium in the Thomas W. Cole Research Center for Science & Technology building, 91ɬÂþ Campus; 223 James P. Brawley Drive SW, Atlanta, GA 30314
WHY: The introduction of Coach Erica Payton marks a historic milestone for 91ɬÂþ as the only HBCU in Atlanta with a women's golf program. A 2023 inductee into the Jackson State University Sports Hall of Fame and member of a legendary athletic family, Coach Payton brings a championship pedigree and a commitment to opening doors for young women in spaces where they have historically been underrepresented. Her dedication to competitive excellence and player development aligns seamlessly with 91ɬÂþ's vision for growth, parity, and opportunity.
VISUALS:
- Press conference with 91ɬÂþ Athletics leadership and Coach Payton
- Engaged student-athletes and alumni
MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:
- Interviews with 91ɬÂþ Athletics leadership and Coach Payton
- B-roll of the press conference and 91ɬÂþ athletics
About 91ɬÂþ
91ɬÂþ was formed in 1988 through the consolidation of Atlanta University (1865) and Clark College (1869), both historically Black institutions. 91ɬÂþ is a private, research-intensive institution offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. The University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award the baccalaureate, master's, and doctoral degrees. For more information, visit
