As the first HBCU in the southern states, Clark Atlanta University played an important role in attracting and cultivating Black intellectuals, athletes and professionals since the late 19th century.
The school’s student body, referred to as the Panthers, walk away from their time at CAU with a motto that’s stamped onto the Nike Dunk’s laces: “FIND A WAY OR MAKE ONE.”
Nike’s purpose is to move the world forward, breaking barriers, and building community to change the game for all. As part of these efforts, Nike Yardrunners was created in 2020 to celebrate the rich heritage, history, and contributions of HBCUs and their alumni on a global scale.
Co-ownership continuing to be at the very heart, 2022's class is represented by four black female Yardrunners, including the daughter of two HBCU alums, Heather Haynes. The alumna today aims to bring people from all walks of life together in her work as a video director and global marketer.
Designed by the CAU alumni herself, the Nike Dunk Low ‘Clark Atlanta University’ features the school’s red, black, and grey color scheme with the university’s motto – “Find a Way or Make One” – displayed on the laces.
The history is represented with “Clark College” & “Atlanta University” emblazoned on the back of the tongue while “1988” is embroidered on the heel, a nod to when Clark College merged with Atlanta University.
Being a part of the Wish ATL family from a young age at CAU, we're happy to have commemorated this release with the honorable Nike Yardrunner.
Last week, we had the amazing opportunity to launch Clark Atlanta University’s Nike Dunk Low on-campus, giving students first dibs on the commemorative sneaker.
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Thank you to the phenomenal CAU students, facility and campus administration for helping us making this day extra special.
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