Abraham “Mr. CIAA” Mitchell, Iconic HBCU Tournament Fan, Passes Away at 95

The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) community is mourning the loss of one of its most loyal and iconic supporters, Abraham “Mr. CIAA” Mitchell, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 95.

Mitchell was a vibrant fixture at the annual CIAA Basketball Tournament, the nation’s oldest historically Black athletic conference event for nearly five decades. Known for his flamboyant and colorful suits, Mitchell’s fashion-forward style made him a beloved figure among fans and attendees. In a 2016 interview with QCity Metro, he credited his late mother, a seamstress, for inspiring his eye-catching wardrobe. “I started designing for CIAA, something different each time I came,” he said.

Mitchell’s devotion to the CIAA tournament was unmatched. In a 2020 interview with USA Today, he shared his approach to dressing for the event: “If I have enough time, I’ll make four changes. (Sometimes) I’ll come back with five or six changes a night.” His outfits not only turned heads but also became a defining part of the tournament’s culture.

In 2016, Mitchell’s dedication was honored with an induction into the CIAA Hall of Fame, a moment he described as “surprising, shocking, and deeply honoring.”

Following his passing, heartfelt tributes poured in from HBCU alumni and fans on social media. HOLLA’! Cheer & Dance Magazine wrote, “Our deepest condolences to the CIAA world on the passing of Mr. Abraham Mitchell, also known as ‘Mr. CIAA.’”

Mitchell’s passion for fashion and his unwavering support for the CIAA will be remembered as a lasting part of the tournament’s rich history.

Photo by Marvin Joseph/The The Washington Post via Getty Images