Rising Swim Star Amira Washington Chooses Howard University

“I am beyond blessed to announce my verbal commitment to continue my academic and athletic career at Howard University,” Washington shared on her commitment to Howard. “GO BISON!!!”

Washington, who also trains with the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County, is a sprint specialist with elite times in the 50 and 100 freestyle, fly, and backstroke. She’s not just fast, she’s historic. At the 2025 YMCA Short Course Nationals, she set a personal best in the 100-yard freestyle. A few months earlier, she reached the A-finals in the 50 fly and 50 back at the YMCA Long Course Nationals.

And she’s still improving. In January 2025, Washington won the 100 back and finished second in the 100 fly at the Shore Conference Tournament, breaking her own school records in both events. Her performances are not just local news, they’re national-caliber.

With personal bests like 24.19 in the 50 free and 53.00 in the 100 free, she would have qualified for multiple A- and B-finals at the 2025 Northeast Conference Championships, where Howard’s women’s team finished just 43 points behind the title.

Her arrival could be a game-changer.

Coach Nic Askew, the visionary behind Howard’s rising swim profile, has built a program rooted in both performance and purpose. In a sport that has historically lacked diversity, Washington’s decision resonates far beyond the lane lines.

This commitment mirrors a powerful shift across college athletics: More elite Black athletes are choosing HBCUs, not just for competition, but for community. In Washington’s case, the opportunity to excel in a Division I program while embracing cultural identity made Howard the perfect fit.

And make no mistake, this is bigger than sports.

Washington’s journey represents a powerful blend of speed, spirit, and symbolism. Her decision to wear the Bison cap isn’t just about individual records, it’s about building a legacy. As Howard eyes a conference title, she’s positioned to leave a lasting mark in and out of the water.

Howard fans, take note: The future of HBCU swimming just got faster.