NEW ORLEANS, La. - For the first time in school history, a Wilberforce University cross country student-athlete has earned weekly recognition from the HBCUAC, the league announced today (Tuesday, September 2, 2025).  

Freshman Skyaqui Howard was named HBCUAC Runner and Freshman of the Week following his performance at the inaugural Wilberforce University XC Invitational.  

"Sky has worked very hard this off season and has totally bought into this team and his training," said Wilberforce University Head Cross Country Coach Dean Freitag. "I'm very proud of him and know this is just the beginning for him. We are just scratching the surface of what he is capable of and I can't wait to see what the rest of the year holds for him." 

In his first collegiate meet, Howard trimmed nearly 10 seconds off his previous best – set in his junior year of high school. The harrier completed the 5K course in 17:56, almost 30 seconds lower than any runner in the conference.