ACT-SO: Celebrating Black Excellence in Arts, Science, and Innovation

For more than two decades, the Akron chapter of the NAACP has hosted a local iteration of the Afro Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO). This national youth achievement program is designed to recognize and uplift the creative, academic, and entrepreneurial talents of Black high school students–with distinguished alumni including Akron’s own Kofi Boakye.

Each year, ACT-SO invites students in grades 9–12 to compete in up to 33 categories across STEM, humanities, business, performing arts, and visual arts. Students who win gold at the local level move on to the national championship, where they’re paired with mentors and introduced to a wider network of professionals, scholarships, and creative pathways. This year’s local competition will be held on April 26, 2025, and is open to Summit County high school students. Registration is open now and closes April 11.

ACT-SO’s mission aligns with Priority 1: Equity and Priority 3: Education of the Akron/Summit Cultural Plan. Priority 1: Equity of the Cultural Plan calls for more equitable investment in programs that center historically marginalized communities. ACT-SO does exactly that by focusing on Black students and creating a platform where their talent, intelligence, and creativity are celebrated on a national stage. Under Priority 3: Education, the Plan emphasizes access to creative learning opportunities, both in and out of school. ACT-SO meets students where they are—inside classrooms, community centers, and homes—and offers mentorship, feedback, and a chance to develop their skills in the arts and beyond.

Coordinated by Jasina Chapman, the local ACT-SO program is a powerful example of what is possible when cultural equity and education intersect. Over the years, ACT-SO has helped students build confidence, hone their talents, and envision their futures as artists, scientists, entrepreneurs, and change-makers. As student recruitment for this year’s program continues, ACT-SO Akron is focused on deepening relationships with local educators and community partners—recognizing that the best outreach happens through genuine connections.