Gulf Coast Athletic Conference finds new home at Maroon Workspace

New Orleans-based coworking space to serve as league headquarters

NEW ORLEANS – Today, Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC) Commissioner Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes announced that Maroon Workspace has signed on to be the official headquarters of the league.

Located on historic St. Charles Avenue in New Orleans, Maroon is a home for changemakers to foster innovation, collaborate with like-minded people, and embrace equity. The shared working space was created to bring together one of the most diverse communities in the country: professionals, entrepreneurs, creatives and techies.

“For too long, the conference has been without a permanent home. But that search ends today with Maroon,” said Barnes. “Our headquarters is where we conduct the very important and impactful business that makes the GCAC viable, and we are thrilled to be working in a space that will continue to allow us to grow and will grow with us.”

A black-owned company founded by Jade Brown-Russell, Maroon is run by Chief Executive Officer Dr. Jawan Alexander. Alexander brings more than 25 years of management experience, including significant executive leadership experience in major non-profit organizations.

“Maroon is at a critical juncture as we look to become an ally for communities, advocates, experts and organizations who fight for equity through business, education, public policy, research, and accountability” said Alexander. “As we prioritize, identify, and connect Black- and Brown-owned organizations and leaders to meaningful opportunities for equitable outcomes, we are blessed and honored to be selected as GCAC’s headquarters.”

About the GCAC
The GCAC is celebrating its 40th year as a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). The GCAC is one of only five conferences comprised of members representing Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the United States. The GCAC membership includes Dillard University (LA), Fisk University (TN), Oakwood University (AL), Philander Smith College (AR), Rust College (MS), Southern University at New Orleans (LA), Tougaloo College (MS), and Wiley College (TX).

About Maroon
Maroon is comprised of a portfolio of companies including Maroon Workspace and Maroon, Inc., its nonprofit organization. Maroon Workspace is a home for changemakers to foster innovation, collaborate with like-minded people, and embrace equity. Based in the heart of New Orleans, this shared working space will bring together one of the most diverse communities in the country: professionals, entrepreneurs, creatives, and techies. Maroon, Inc. has a team of highly qualified diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), small business, education, and trauma-informed specialists with years of experience in helping communities as well as public and private agencies create and execute global strategies for equitable outcomes. Those who seek equity must do equity. Our mission is simple – we do equity!  Learn more at www.maroonworkspace.com and www.themaroon.org.