Maurice Ashley Chess Fellowship Announces Inaugural Class of 2025 Awardees

New York, NY – June 25, 2025 — The Maurice Ashley Chess Fellowship (MACF) is proud to announce the selection of its inaugural class of fellowship recipients for 2025. Founded by Grandmaster Maurice Ashley—the first African American to achieve the title of chess Grandmaster—the fellowship aims to identify, support, and elevate exceptional young chess talent from underserved communities across the United States.

The 2025 fellows are:

• Brewington Hardaway, 16 – GM and rising international talent, awarded a $20,000 fellowship

• Jacorey Bynum, 17 – A standout player with a current national rating of 2301, awarded an $8,000 fellowship

• Ayden Spellman-Robinson, 10 – A promising young competitor with over 150 tournaments played, awarded a $5,000 fellowship
   

Each of these young players has demonstrated extraordinary talent, work ethic, and passion for the game. The fellowship awards are designed to ease the financial burden of elite training, providing funding for coaching, tournaments, travel, and chess equipment.

Fellows will also be connected to a global network of mentors, peers, and sponsors, enhancing their development and opening doors to future opportunities. Beyond financial support, they will receive mentorship from Grandmaster Ashley and guidance from leading figures in the chess world—support designed to help them navigate the demanding path toward successful professional chess careers.

"This is more than just financial support—it’s about belief,” said Maurice Ashley. “Too often, brilliant kids are left behind because they don’t have access to the resources or mentorship they need. This fellowship is about changing that—about opening doors and supporting the dreams of kids who deserve a shot at greatness.”

The Maurice Ashley Chess Fellowship is administered by the US Chess Trust, one of the nation’s oldest sports charities. The 2025 Awards Committee includes Grandmaster Maurice Ashley, four-time US Champion GM Fabiano Caruana, and Candidate Master Rochelle Ballantyne.

Each fellow will also take part in a give-back component, developing projects to inspire and support the next generation of young players from underrepresented communities.

Initial funding for the MACF was seeded by a $20,000 personal contribution from GM Ashley. Ongoing support from donors and sponsors will be critical to the fellowship’s ability to grow and sustain its mission of leveling the playing field in elite chess.

To contribute to the Maurice Ashley Chess Fellowship, please visit:
https://www.uschesstrust.org/donate/