Walt Disney World� Resort
September 2, 2014
COMMUNITY UPDATE

Disney Helps Draw HBCU Fans to Orlando

Disney helped bring thousands of sports fans to Central Florida this Labor Day weekend for the 10th annual MEAC/SWAC Challenge Presented by Disney. Though the North Carolina A&T Aggies of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) triumphed over rival Alabama A&M Bulldogs of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), the real winners were the thousands of fans and alumni of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) who came to Central Florida to cheer on their favorite teams. Having a positive impact across Central Florida, the showdown was hosted by the University of Central Florida and aired on ESPN network, showcasing the region to a national audience. "As we celebrate one more year of the MEAC/SWAC Challenge, it's thrilling to be part of the heritage, community and educational legacy of HBCUs," said Nancy Gidusko, director of corporate citizenship for Walt Disney World Resort.

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HBCU Spirit on Parade at Disney Fan Day

HBCU fans know the MEAC/SWAC Challenge Presented by Disney is more than just a football game. The weekend events include the band showcase, a perennial favorite, highlighting the spirit and heritage of these storied academic institutions. During Fan Day at Magic Kingdom Park on Saturday, North Carolina A&T's Blue and Gold Marching Machine and Alabama A&M's Marching Maroon and White delighted fans along Main Street. "Each year, Disney Cast Members and guests look forward to the band showcase, which brings the HBCU spirit and pageantry of college football to the fun of our theme parks," said Belinda Frazier, manager of corporate citizenship for Walt Disney World Resort. 

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Cast Share College Insight with Students 

As part of the events leading up to game day, Walt Disney World Resort hosted 100 Central Florida high school students during an HBCU college information fair at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort.

Representatives from the United Negro College Fund teamed with football rivals North Carolina A&T and Alabama A&M, providing financial aid advice and higher education tips to the students. In addition, Disney Cast Members who are HBCU graduates shared insights on their experiences. "It's gratifying to see the HBCU community come together to inspire our next generation of students and leaders," said Sherry Paramore from the United Negro College Fund. 

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Disney Donates Art to Local Nonprofit
Walt Disney World Resort recently donated 52 pieces of contemporary art to the Downtown Arts District as part of the company's commitment to promoting a vibrant art scene in Orlando. The international collection of colorful lithographs and pastels, unique woodcuts and etched art were part of a collection exhibited at Disney's Contemporary Resort since the 1970s. "The quality and caliber of the artists and their work is very exciting," said Barbara Hartley, executive director of Downtown Arts District. "We intend to showcase the art in downtown for Central Florida residents and visitors to enjoy." 
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ALSO MAKING HEADLINES...
ESPN Gives Sports Career Advice to Orlando Students 



As part of the MEAC/SWAC Challenge, hundreds of Central Florida high school students learned about sports careers during the ESPN Career Panel 101.
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HBCU Peers Honor Sports Legends



Five sports professionals received the HBCU Trailblazer Award during the Legends Reception at Disney's Contemporary Resort. 
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Disney's Recycling Benefits Central Florida Nonprofit



By recycling thousands of mattresses, Walt Disney World Resort is helping a local group assist families in need. 
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Disney Chefs VoluntEAR at new Homeless Facility



Disney chefs prepared and served meals at the new men's facility at the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida. 
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