Welcome to the 2026 Inland Empire Academic Bowl
Hosted by CSUSB, Pi Rho Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, 100 Black Men IE & GLG
Our theme this year is “What Is America To Me?” in honor of author, poet, and social activist Langston Hughes.
This 2026 theme, “What Is America To Me?” has been expressed in many formats. Most notably, author, poet, and social activist Langston Hughes frequently referenced this question.
However, some comparable individuals share the query. Frank Sinatra questioned America’s commitment to those at the bottom of the social ladder. Derrick Bell, Billie Holiday, Michael Jordan, or Kathleen Hughes shared remarkable success, but not without the question of why we must work twice as hard to be challenged in our own authenticity.
This year’s Academic Bowl invites students to engage this question through knowledge, competition, and critical thinking.
ACADEMIC BOWL TEAM GUIDELINES
- Each team must consist of three (3) primary players.
- One (1) alternate is permitted.
- Zero Alternates may not replace a player after Round 2.
- Each team must designate one member as the Team Captain.
- Teams must represent a single school or a recognized organization (e.g., Pacific High School or 100 Black Men Team).
- Schools may not combine teamsto compete. Joint teams are only permitted if they represent a recognized organization that exists outside of a single school or campus. (i.e. Delta Sigma Theta or Onyx Black Males)
PLEASE HAVE YOUR TEAM FINALIZED BY 02/07/2026
2026 Inland Empire Academic Bowl FAQ's
Event Logistics
What time does the Academic Bowl begin?
On Saturday, March 7, 2026?
Registration opens at 8:15 AM. The program will begin promptly at 9:00 AM. Teams should arrive early to allow time for check-in and seating.
Where will the Academic Bowl take place?
The Academic Bowl will be hosted at California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB). The event will be held in the Watson College of Education. The specific room locations will be shared with registered teams before the event.
Preparation & Participation
What is the best way to prepare for the Academic Bowl?
Consistent reading, studying all topic areas, and practicing teamwork are key. Teams are strongly encouraged to:
- · Review all listed subject areas.
- · Attend information sessions.
- · Check the website weekly for updates, hints, and study tools.
Should all team members study, or just certain students?
All students are responsible for all content areas. Every participant should be fully prepared, as any team member may be needed at any point in the competition.
Are teams required to attend the information sessions from January 27 through February 17?
Attendance is not mandatory but highly encouraged. These sessions help teams understand game formats and expectations. A Zoom link will be provided to registered coaches and teams.
Team Competition vs. Black Wall Street
Is the Black Wall Street competition part of the Team Competition?
No. Black Wall Street (BWS) is a separate, and individual competition and does not impact team scores.
Who is eligible to participate in the Black Wall Street competition?
Students whose teams do not advance to the Top 4 teams in the Team Competition may compete individually in Black Wall Street.
Can students participate in both competitions?
Yes. All students begin in the Team Competition. Eligible students may then compete in Black Wall Street if their team does not advance.
Competition Formats
What types of competition formats are used during the Academic Bowl?
The Academic Bowl uses three formats:
- · Paper Test (closed book; pencils and scratch paper provided)
- · Kahoot! Games (interactive, timed digital trivia)
- · Jeopardy-style Games (team-based buzzer format)
Is the Paper Test open or closed book?
The Paper Test is closed-book. No electronic devices or outside materials are permitted.
Do answers in Jeopardy have to be in the form of a question?
No. Answers do not need to be phrased as a question for this competition.
Scoring & Advancement
How are teams selected to advance in the competition?
Team advancement is based on the combined (individual) player score from:
- · Paper Test
- · Kahoot! Games
The Top 4 teams advance to the Team Semi-Finals, and the Top 2 teams compete in Final Jeopardy.
How is the Academic Bowl champion determined?
The champion team is determined by the highest cumulative score across all competition components.
Prizes & Awards
Are prizes awarded at the Academic Bowl? Yes.
- One (1) Black Wall Street Champion will receive a laptop.
- The winning Team Competition champion will receive laptops for team members.
Topics & Content
What subject areas will be covered in the Academic Bowl?
Topics include:
- · Black Scientists
- · Black Authors
- · Black Athletes
- · Young Black Entrepreneurs
- · Inland Southern California Leadership
- · Black Wall Street
Event Flow & Breaks
Will there be breaks during the competition?
Yes. There will be one 15-minute break following the first round of competition.
Technology & Devices
Do students need to bring their own devices?
Yes. Devices (phone, tablet, or laptop) are required for Kahoot! gameplay. No devices are permitted during the Paper Test.
What happens if there is a technical issue during Kahoot?
Technical issues must be reported immediately to a moderator. The moderator’s decision is final.
Additional Information
Where can we find updates, hints, and study resources?
Please visit glgscienceedu.org weekly for updates, preparation tools, and important announcements.
Register Today
Help us celebrate the 50th anniversary of The Mighty Sigma Eta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated.