CPS student athletes put their skills to the test in Fifth Third Arena
UC hosts annual event which showcases student talent and assists area families facing homelessness
It was a day where skills on the court were put to the test and spectators were the beneficiaries.
CPS All-Star Showcase returned to UC’s Fifth Third Arena Sunday, April 6, allowing the best high school athletes in Cincinnati Public Schools to compete in a three-point contest, a slam dunk fest and the All-Star games.
The fourth annual showcase raised $20,000 for Project Connect, CPS’ program to advocate and provide specialized academic services and lifestyle enrichment opportunities for children experiencing homelessness. Project Connect served more than 4,000 students last year.
The University of Cincinnati is the presenting partner of the annual event, which highlights the university’s commitment to its CPS Strong initiative.
The Slam Dunk competition drew applause at the 4th annual CPS All-Star Showcase in Fifth Third Arena. Photo provided.
“We are so proud of this partnership with CPS, not only do we get to highlight incredible student athletes but it is also an opportunity to welcome the Cincinnati community onto campus to celebrate great CPS students,” says Jack Miner, vice provost for enrollment management.
Miner says the CPS Strong program helps make local high school students more successful at the university.
“Since the inception of the program, we have seen a 20% increase in CPS students attending UC and a 10% increase in first year retention,” explains Miner.
Proceeds from the CPS All-Star Showcase help fund emergency hotel stays for families sleeping outdoors or in vehicles. These stays often serve as a critical first step toward accessing shelter and achieving long-term housing stability.
“Project Connect has been an invaluable partner serving thousands of students who experience homelessness,” says Miner. “They ensure that students have a safe place to stay so they can concentrate on their high school graduation. We now have a pathway for those students to study at UC as well.”
WLWT, Local 12 and Fox 19 provided media coverage of the showcase.
Featured top image of the All-Star Girls Basketball competition in Fifth Third Arena. Photo provided.
The Fourth Annual CPS All-Star Showcase raised $20,000 for Project Connect. Photo provided.
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