HAMPTON, Va (February 17, 2026) – Five Hampton University students represented the institution with distinction at the 26th annual Applied Ethics Bowl hosted by the Virginia Foundation for Independent Colleges (VFIC) on February 13, earning two decisive victories in four rounds of rigorous competition.
Representing Hampton University were Kania Coman ’27, Malachi Hutcherson ’27, Richard Johnson ’27, Imani Laird ’28, and Jaydn Wilson ’27. The team was led by faculty coordinator Damien L. Bevelle, J.D., Assistant Professor and Director of the Pre-Law Institute.
Competing against some of Virginia’s leading independent colleges and universities, Team Hampton demonstrated sharp analytical reasoning, principled debate, and poise under pressure throughout the day-long event. Their two losses were determined by exceptionally narrow margins.
In a defining moment of the competition, Hampton handed Bridgewater College—the eventual tournament champion—its only defeat of the day.
The team’s success is especially noteworthy given unexpected challenges leading up to the competition. One student was unable to fully prepare due to illness in the final weeks before the event, and a key returning competitor from last year had to be replaced just two days prior to the tournament by a student new to both the team and the Ethics Bowl format. Despite these circumstances, the students unified quickly, demonstrating intellectual discipline, resilience, and a collaborative spirit that reflected the University’s standards of excellence.
“This is what Hampton produces; scholars who are intellectually fearless, ethically grounded, and prepared to lead in every room they enter,” said Darrell K. Williams, President of Hampton University. “Our students competed with clarity, conviction, and courage. To defeat the eventual champion and compete so closely with established programs speaks volumes about the strength of our academic community and the bright future ahead for this team.”
Three of the five students competing this year were first-time participants in the Applied Ethics Bowl, and all five will return next year. With experience now in hand and a strengthened foundation, Hampton University is well positioned to contend for the championship trophy in 2027.
Through thoughtful deliberation on complex ethical case studies, Hampton students once again affirmed the University’s commitment to preparing leaders equipped to navigate the moral and professional challenges of a global society.
ABOUT HAMPTON UNIVERSITY
Hampton University is a prestigious Carnegie R2-designated research institution, nationally acclaimed for pioneering work in atmospheric science, cancer treatment, and cybersecurity. With an annual economic impact of $530 million across the region and the Commonwealth of Virginia, Hampton stands as a powerful engine of innovation, workforce development, and inclusive economic growth.
Consistently recognized for academic excellence and transformative outcomes, Hampton was recently named one of the “Best Colleges in America” by Money Magazine and honored as the “Best Private College” by Coastal Virginia Magazine.
Founded in 1868, Hampton University is a proud, close-knit community of scholars, representing 44 states and 32 territories. With a legacy rooted in empowerment and education, the university is committed to nurturing intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and global citizenship — preparing students to lead with purpose and integrity in an ever-changing world. Learn more at: www.hamptonu.edu
For media inquiries, please contact Mahogany Waldon in the Office of University Relations at universityrelations@hamptonu.edu.
