About the National Chess Academy

2009

 

Community Collaborators:


Academic Empowerment Learning Center

2nd Baptist Church

Beacon House

Calvary Multicultural Bilingual Learning Center

Cesar Chavez Public Charter High School

D.C. Department of Health-Addiction Prevention and Recovery Administration

D.C. Department of Human Services Income Maintenance Administration

D.C. Pubic Libraries

D.C. Public School System

D.C. Village

Higher Achievement Program

Howard University

Jelleff Boys and Girls Club

The Lab School

The Maret School

Moten Center

Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan Washington D.C.

Vietnamese Community Center

The Washington International School

Washington Middle School for Girls

Washington Tennis and Education Foundation

Vaughn Bennett- President

Mr. Bennett, an acclaimed and committed chess instructor, began playing organized chess in 1987. Now, more than 21 years later, he has shared his love of chess with more than 5,000 children. He has positively impacted the lives of many underserved populations and has helped his students earn local, regional and national recognition. Most recently, in 2006 he coached the Washington International School (WIS) Chess Team at the National Elementary Chess Championships. The WIS team tied for 1st place in the country. Mr. Bennett also coached chess teams at Howard University from 2001 to 2004. Mr. Bennett was duly elected DC Delegate to the United States Chess Federation from 2004 to 2006. Mr. Bennett's work has been featured in The Washington Post, The Washington Informer, The Washington Times and on Voice of America.

 

The National Chess Academy, a newly organized community-based effort led by chess veteran Vaughn Bennett provides small group and individualized chess instruction to youth and adults in the Washington, DC metropolitan area.


The mission of the The National Chess Academy is to increase cognitive and social skills through the provision of structured recreation and positive reinforcements.


The National Chess Academy is committed to strengthening the minds of inner city youth and adults. Our specialized instruction and unique approach to chess increases self-esteem, sharpens mental capabilities and encourages creativity.


The National Chess Academy offers lessons and sponsors tournaments for people of all ages and skill sets. Most of our programs are subsidized and offered free of charge.