Charlotte, N.C./December 2, 2025 - The Johnson C. Smith University Golden Bulls made history once again—this time off the field—as the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners formally proclaimed December 2, 2025 JCSU CIAA Champions Day. The packed chamber erupted in applause as Commission Chair Mark D. Jerrell invited President Valerie Kinloch '96, Head Coach Maurice Flowers, Director of Athletics, Dr. Denisha Hendricks, student-athletes, and the JCSU football coaching staff forward for the reading of the proclamation.
“The champs are here,” Chairman Jerrell said as the team approached the front of the room. “We want you to stand here proudly at the microphones while we honor the work you’ve done—not just for JCSU, but for our entire county.”
Jerrell delivered the proclamation, highlighting the Golden Bulls’ extraordinary 2025 season, their first conference title in 55 years, and their 10–2 record—one of the most dominant modern-era finishes in program history. The proclamation emphasized the team’s grit, discipline, and unity, noting that their victory over Virginia Union University “solidified their position as one of the premier teams in the conference.”
The proclamation further acknowledged the profound impact of the season:
“The achievements of this team have served as an inspiration to students, alumni, faculty, staff, and supporters, strengthening campus pride and reaffirming the University’s tradition of excellence.”
After reading the resolution in full, Chairman Jerrell formally declared the observance:
“Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners does hereby proclaim December 2, 2025, as Johnson C. Smith University 2025 CIAA Champions Day in Mecklenburg County.”
Vice Chair Leigh Altman added her own praise, noting, “This team lifted our entire community. You showed us what determination looks like, and you did it with heart, humility, and pride.”
JCSU President, Dr. Valerie Kinloch, Director of Athletics, Dr. Denisha Hendricks, and Head Football Coach Maurice Flowers offered remarks of gratitude—saluting a team whose commitment to scholarship, leadership, and athletic excellence has inspired the entire community.
Coach Flowers thanked the Commission for the honor. “This proclamation means the world to our players, our University, and our city. We set out to make history—and with the support of our community, we did just that.”
President Kinloch spoke to the broader significance of the moment. “This recognition affirms what we already know: JCSU scholars and athletes are remarkable. Their success is a reflection of a university rising, a community believing, and a legacy continuing.”
Dr. Hendricks applauded the team for their display of excellence in and off the field. "These young men have made history. They have etched themselves in the history books of not only JCSU but in the [CIAA] conference and the country. We stand on the shoulders of those young men who decided to play a football game one cold December back in 1892."
Each commissioner shared words of admiration and appreciation for the JCSU football team. Finally, each player, clad in navy blue suit jackets and khakis, trailed down to the chamber floor to greet the Mecklenburg County Commissioners one-by-one!
The proclamation is a tangible reminder of a season that united Charlotte, energized alumni, and marked a powerful new chapter in Golden Bulls history.
